Changes In Australian English: New Words In Australian English

Australian English is a constantly evolving language, reflecting the cultural diversity and unique histories that shape the Australian identity. Over time, new words are added to the Aussie lexicon, often borrowing from various influences and reflecting the ever-changing nature of society. In this article, we will explore some of the recent additions to Australian English vocabulary and how they contribute to the richness and dynamism of the language.

The Influence of Multiculturalism

Australia is a multicultural nation, and this diversity has greatly impacted its language. New words in Australian English often emerge from the languages of different immigrant groups and Indigenous communities. For instance, words like "bush tucker," which refers to traditional Indigenous food, and "barbie," an abbreviation for barbecue, have become commonly used in everyday Australian speech. These words not only enrich the language but also demonstrate the country's commitment to inclusivity and cultural acceptance.

Other examples of multicultural influences on Australian English include words such as "chai" (a type of tea), "kebab," and "biryani" (popular Middle-Eastern and Indian dishes), which have found their way into the vernacular of many Australians. These words provide a glimpse into the diverse culinary experiences that have shaped the Australian palate.

New Words 2018-2019: Changes in Australian English (New Words in Australian English)

by Edmond H. Weiss (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1675 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	215 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Impact of Technology

The rise of technology has brought about revolutionary changes in the way we communicate, and Australian English is no exception. New words and phrases related to technology have become part of everyday vocabulary. Terms like "selfie," "emoji," and "wifi" are now widely understood and used by Australians of all ages.

In addition to technology-specific terms, the digital age has also given rise to new ways of expressing oneself. For example, abbreviations such as "lol" (laugh out loud) and "brb" (be right back) have become ingrained in online conversations and are often used in informal spoken language as well. These additions to the Australian lexicon reflect the impact of the internet and global connectivity on the country's linguistic landscape.

Aussie Slang: A Nation's Identity

No discussion of Australian English would be complete without acknowledging the nation's beloved slang. Slang words are an integral part of Australian culture, often serving as an expression of national identity and camaraderie. While many slang words and phrases have been in use for generations, new additions continue to shape the language.

For example, the word "g'day" (short for "good day") has long been associated with Australian English greetings, but newer words like "arvo" (afternoon) and "brekkie" (breakfast) have also become popular slang terms. These informal and abbreviated words are not only convenient for everyday conversation but also contribute to the relaxed and laid-back image often associated with Australians.

The Power of Pop Culture

Pop culture has a profound impact on language, and Australian English is not immune to this influence. Phrases and expressions derived from movies, television shows, music, and social media trends can quickly seep into the everyday speech of Australians.

For instance, after the worldwide success of the film "Crocodile Dundee" in the 1980s, phrases like "That's not a knife, this is a knife" became iconic and synonymous with Australian culture. Similarly, the rise of reality TV shows and social media platforms has introduced new terms into the lexicon. Words like "reality TV," "Instagrammable," and "binge-watching" have become increasingly common in Australian English.

The Importance of Embracing Change

As the Australian cultural landscape continues to evolve, so does the language. Embracing new words and phrases is essential for keeping the language relevant and reflecting the realities of contemporary society.

While there may be some resistance to change, it is important to recognize that language is a living organism that needs to adapt and grow. New words provide a fresh perspective and capture the nuances of the world we live in today.

Australian English is a vibrant and ever-changing language, shaped by the multicultural influences, technological advancements, and popular culture that surround it. The addition of new words to the lexicon reflects the dynamic nature of the Australian identity, showcasing the nation's commitment to inclusivity, technological progress, and cultural relevance.

By embracing these changes, Australians ensure that their language remains alive, expressive, and connected to the diverse society they inhabit. So, next time you hear a new word in Australian English, remember that it's not just a linguistic addition; it's an invitation to explore the ever-evolving tapestry of the Australian cultural experience.

New Words 2018-2019: Changes in Australian English (New Words in Australian English)

by Edmond H. Weiss (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1675 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	215 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

New Words 2018-19, Changes in Australian English, is a record of the words which have gained currency in this variety of English in the years 2018 and 2019.

Words in 2018 ranged from politics to science and technology to colloquialisms. Politics was coloured by the anxiety about the truthiness or the fakeness of what was being said, so words like fauxpology and deep fake were high in currency. The refugees gave us resignation syndrome and the new prime minister meant that we all learnt about prosperity theology. New colloquialisms were judgy and whack-a-mole, and the Me-Too Movement gave us the verb to me-too.

The continuing concern with the drought meant that we acquired words like droughtlot and confinement paddock, while on the other hand the occasional flooding rain gave us the concept of the sponge city.

Technology produced the chip implant, synthetic biology, precision medicine and the drone swarm.

The politics of 2019 provided some new Australian coinages such as the quiet Australians and the Voice to Parliament. Politicians borrowed and adapted a couple of items from American English such as wedgislation and bothsidesism.

The picture of how our society is shaping up is painted by such terms as silver tsunami, the death clean and the death café. Suddenly the concerns of old age loom large. The younger generation views all this patronisingly, dismissing the laments of their elders with OK boomer!

The Me-Too crisis produced the consent guardian. The general sense of depression forced such deliberately upbeat creations as up lit and hopepunk. On the internet there were those who decided that others had done something beyond the pale and therefore invoked cancel culture, while others engaged in meme warfare to win and argument. The first generation to grow up posting online is now seeking the right to be forgotten.

But it was the environment that was first and foremost in our minds this year with climate emergency, climate crisis, climate strike, climate exodus and climate fires leading to eco-anxiety and climate grief. The megafire became a reality for us. We struggled to do something positive for the environment by measuring our plastic footprint, building passive houses, adopting pumped hydro, and, in some few instances, taking up seasteading.

So my word of the year has to be climate fires which will, I think, be remembered as a significant marker of our progress down the path of climate change, causing great suffering for some people and great anxiety even in the cities which are not normally affected by the bushfires but which were covered in a pall of smoke by this year’s megafires.

The new words in this collection will allow a retrospective visit to these years through the prism of the terms that we felt that we needed to have.

The collection is put together by Sue Butler, former Editor of the Macquarie Dictionary and now Lexicographer at large. The words appear on her website www.suebutler.com.au but this is a perhaps more convenient alphabetical presentation.