Australian English to the American ear and eye is odd in a variety of ways. First, are the little things like the difference between “mould” and “mold” or “gray” and “grey.” The spelling shifts slightly but its meaning appears clear and quite concise, this goes double if you are in the habit of reading old English or Jane Austin novels.
But then there are the words that have double meaning or to the American ear have little to no meaning. Here are some examples:
Toilet: There are no restrooms or public bathrooms! It is called a toilet, and if you want a bath then go home and take one.
Petrol: Gasoline
Lollie: This is not your average lollypop. This refers to not only lollypops but sweets and candies of all varieties!
Torch: Flashlight
Lemonade: Do not go to a store and search for American “lemonade” you will become frustrated and disappointed. When Australians refer to “lemonade” they are actually referring to the Coca-cola produced beverage of Sprite. It makes sense in a weird way, I mean if you asked a person to describe “lemonade” in either country your two main descriptors are sweet and lemon flavoured.
Capsicum: Bell peppers
Tea: Its not just for drinking anymore! Tea can refer to the beverage, tea-time like brunches or afternoon meals, or it can refer to dinner. So if someone asks you to make “tea” you better clarify what that activity entails before starting.
Avro: In the afternoon
This is only a small subset of the new language I am engaging in and if the right Australian says the right sentence it is very much like a different language. There are a lot more amusing words and pronunciations that I am compiling, so keep an eye out for a continuation of Australian English lessons.
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