We purposely chose an English-speaking country when Tom pursued his first international medical experience. Though we technically speak the same language, our English vocabulary has necessarily expanded since moving to New Zealand. For example, very early on I was excited when an acquaintance promised to "give me a ring." Loving jewelry as I do, I was slightly disappointed to learn she would give me a call instead of a bit bling!
I've been keeping a log of various Kiwi words and phrases that we regularly hear or see. Although the list is ever expanding, here are some of my favourites (not a typo):
NZ English.....What This Really Means
take a soak.....sit in the spa
track.....hiking trail
go for a walk.....take a hike
tramp.....a more extensive hike - like backpacking
pinched.....stolen
nappy.....diaper
chilly bin.....cooler
brassed off.....disappointed
bugger!.....damn!
suss.....figure it out
takeaway.....carryout (i.e. food)
Good on You!!.....Bravo!
wicked.....energetic
Dodgy.....bad,unreliable
frosty roads.....icy roads
Come for tea.....not just tea - but come for a meal
brilliant.....excellent or thanks
jumper or cardie/sweater
full on.....intense
Give Way.....Yield - as every driver in my vicinity should do
Some of these NZ English expressions remind me of our favorite British movies... Hugh Grant's secretary lives on the "dodgy end" in Love Actually and Martin from Notting Hill had his "sexy cardie." Has anyone said "daft prick" or "I hate Uncle Jamie!"?? :)
ReplyDeleteA favorite of mine is 'Keep your pecker up!' (same as keep your chin up in the US) and 'I'll knock you up.'
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