💬 Small Talk & Banter
Small talk is how Australians are friendly with people they have just met: at work, in queues and at the shops. Questions are light, and answers are usually short and relaxed.
Starting a chat
How ya going?A greeting that does not need a long answer. Try "Good, thanks. You?" Full phrase page →
Got any plans for the weekend?A very common question on Thursday or Friday.
How's your week been?A friendly question at work.
Bit warm today, isn't it?The weather is a safe and popular topic.
Replies that sound natural
Not too bad.A relaxed way to say you are fine.
No worries.Replies to thanks or apologies. Full phrase page →
I reckon it'll be a good one."Reckon" means "think". Full phrase page →
Yeah, nah.Often means "no", while "nah, yeah" often means "yes". The tone and context help you tell them apart.
Tip: Friendly teasing is common between friends and colleagues. If someone gives you a hard time in a light, smiling way, they are usually showing they like you. You can tease back gently.
Keeping it going
Good on ya!Praise, like "Well done!".
She'll be right.A relaxed way to say "It will be okay".
Anyway, I'd better get going.A polite way to end a conversation.
Catch you later!A casual goodbye.
Phrases from this guide
Practise it
Reading is not enough. Say these phrases out loud: listen, repeat, and keep the rhythm.
Start the 20-minute lesson →Keep going
🦘 Want the slang meanings?
Look up Aussie slang and origin stories on Fair Dinkum.
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Look up Aussie slang and origin stories on Fair Dinkum.