Story: English language in New Zealand

Keeping it informal

Keeping it informal

New Zealanders (and Australians) add a touch of informality to their language by shortening or dividing words and adding -ie or -o to the end. Here are some blokes cooking saussies (sausages) on the barbie (barbecue) while drinking from stubbies (stubby glass beer bottles).

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How to cite this page:

Dianne Bardsley, 'English language in New Zealand - Characteristics of New Zealand English', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/40312/keeping-it-informal (accessed 27 April 2024)

Story by Dianne Bardsley, published 5 Sep 2013