Idioms from Other English-Speaking Countries

Idioms from English-Speaking Countries: Australia & New Zealand

English is spoken around the world, but each country has its own unique idioms that add color to conversations. From North America to the UK and other English-speaking nations, these expressions reflect culture, humor, and daily life. Let’s explore some of the most popular idioms from different regions!

Australia & New Zealand

• Flat out like a lizard drinking – Extremely busy.
  Example: I’ve been flat out like a lizard drinking all week at work.
• She’ll be right – Everything will be okay.
  Example: Don’t stress about the test; she’ll be right.
• Taking the mickey – Making fun of someone.
  Example: Are you taking the mickey out of me?
• Spit the dummy – To have a tantrum or overreact.
  Example: He spat the dummy when his team lost the game.
• Hard yakka – Hard work.
  Example: Farming is real hard yakka.
• Sweet as – Really good or excellent.
  Example: That surf session was sweet as!
• Give it a burl – Give it a try.
  Example: I’ve never cooked this before, but I’ll give it a burl.
• No worries – It’s okay; don’t stress.
  Example: Thanks for helping! – No worries, mate!

South Africa

• Now-now – Soon, but not immediately.
  Example: I’ll do it now-now!
• Howzit? – A casual way to say “How are you?”
  Example: Howzit, mate?
• Just now – In a little while.
  Example: I’ll call you just now.
• Hold thumbs – To wish for good luck.
  Example: I’m holding thumbs for your interview!
• Lekker – Great, awesome.
  Example: That was a lekker meal!
• Ja, no – A way to acknowledge something while thinking.
  Example: Ja, no, I get what you mean.
• Eish! – An expression of surprise or frustration.
  Example: Eish! That was a close call.
• Ag man! – A phrase expressing disappointment or disbelief.
  Example: Ag man! I can’t believe we lost the match.

Final Thoughts

Idioms make conversations more engaging and fun. Whether you’re in the USA, UK, Australia, or South Africa, these expressions bring a unique charm to English. Next time you hear one, you’ll know exactly what it means!