We've been back in the States for 2 months now. Since being back I have noticed, with renewed vigour, the many differences between American and Australian culture. One that is easily expressed is the different words we use. So, I've compiled a list for you word lovers. The list is in no way exhaustive but contains the words that, when used, most commonly produce a comment, question or blank stare.
USA - Australia
bangs - fringe
bathing suit - swimmers/cossies
breakfast - brekkie
call - ring
cell - mobile
cilantro - coriander
cookie - biscuit/bikky
cooler - eski
diaper - nappy
eraser - rubber
fall - autumn
flip flops - thongs
frosting - icing
ground beef - mince
gum - chewy
hat/taboggon - beanie
"hello" - "g'day"
hood (car) - bonnet
"how are you doing?" - "how are you going?"
marker - texta
mechanical pencil - pacer
pacifier - dummy
pavement - tar/bitumen road
pop/soda - fizzy drink/soft drink
"seriously!?" - "fair dinkum!?"
sidewalk - pavement/walkway
stroller - pram
sunglasses - sunnies
sweater - jumper
sweat pants - trackies
tennis shoes - joggers
trash - rubbish/garbage
trash can - bin
trunk - boot
two weeks - fortnight
water fountain - bubbler
"wow!" - "crikey!"
2 comments:
I just checked out your blog for the 1st time and I am so glad I did! I used to live in Newcastle, Australia, and I remember a lot of the word differences you have on your list :) Glad you guys are back in the States with your sweet Eliana! Well, I'm going to get back to chasing after my own "littlies" now...
how about Napkin - surviette. i prefer napkin and sometimes can't remember the aussie word for it. wooz
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