We Aussies love a bit of slang. But according to a new survey, we’re also annoyed by much of the slang we speak.
The survey, conducted by Preply of 1500 Australians aged 16 to 55-plus, reveals various aspects of slang usage in the country.
Over 30 per cent of the participants admit to using slang in most conversations, with ‘mate’, ‘thongs’, and ‘sunnies’ being the most well-known slang words. However, some slang words like ‘sheila’, ‘crikey’, and ‘cake hole’ were found to be annoying.
The majority of people learn slang from their friends (64.29%) and through the internet or social media platforms (52.56%). Slang usage varies among different age groups and genders. Younger individuals (16-24-year-olds) are more likely to learn slang through the internet and social media, while women tend to use slang more often than men in conversations with friends.
Despite its wide usage, some Australians believe there is a time and place for using slang. The home is seen as the most appropriate place for talking in slang (57.89%), and using slang in the workplace remains a topic of debate. Only a small percentage of people think it is acceptable to use slang during a first date or job interview.
Language expert Sylvia Johnson explains that slang has evolved over the years and serves as a form of shorthand that fosters a sense of belonging among individuals within a specific group. Slang expressions may have a brief lifespan or endure for a longer time, depending on various factors.
Understanding Australian slang may be essential for effective communication and building relationships in Australia, and although it is widely used and accepted in everyday conversations among friends, family, and colleagues, it seems there are some slang words best left off the list.
What’s your favourite slang word? Which slang word/term do you find most annoying?
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