This week, we’re giving away three copies of Australia in 100 Words by Historian and Director of the Australian National Dictionary Centre Amanda Laugesen. Prepare yourself for a deep dive into the quirky world of Aussie lingo. Here’s the blurb:
Bludger. Larrikin. Dinkum. Sickie. Pash. Illywhacker.
There are plenty of words to choose from to tell the story of Australia – from iconic Australianisms like mateship, fair dinkum, and bogan to drop bears, budgie smugglers and bin chickens.
And while you aren’t likely to hear bonzer, crikey, or cobber while walking down the street, you will hear no worries, mate, and yeah, nah. Words underpin the myths and stereotypes of Australian identity; they have also obscured harsh realities and inequalities. There were more than 250 languages spoken on this continent before invasion. And while Australian English has many male archetypes – from bushrangers to diggers – there are far fewer words that tell us about the lives of women.
Entries close midday (Syd/Melb time) Monday 7 October 2024. Winners will be notified within a week of the competition closing.
GOOD LUCK!