Australia Proverbs (10)

Traditional proverbs of Australia in Khmer and English — each with its meaning and source.

A fair go

“A fair go for all.”

Everyone deserves an equal opportunity and to be treated justly, regardless of background.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian saying, public-domain oral tradition (widely cited as a core national value)

She'll be right, mate

“She'll be right, mate.”

Reassurance that things will work out fine and there is no need to worry.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian colloquial saying, public-domain oral tradition

Fair dinkum

“Fair dinkum.”

Something is genuine, honest and true — the real thing.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian colloquialism, public-domain oral tradition

Buckley's chance

“He hasn't got Buckley's chance.”

There is little or no chance of something happening or succeeding.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian saying, public-domain oral tradition

Flat out like a lizard drinking

“Flat out like a lizard drinking.”

Extremely busy or working as fast as one possibly can.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian idiom, public-domain oral tradition

Give it a burl

“Give it a burl.”

Have a go and try something, even if success is uncertain.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian colloquialism, public-domain oral tradition

No worries

“No worries.”

It is fine, no problem, and nothing to be concerned about.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian colloquialism, public-domain oral tradition

Don't come the raw prawn

“Don't come the raw prawn with me.”

Don't try to deceive me or take me for a fool.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian idiom, public-domain oral tradition

Dry as a dead dingo's donga

“Dry as a dead dingo's donga.”

Extremely dry or, of a person, very thirsty.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian idiom, public-domain oral tradition

Bring a plate

“Bring a plate.”

When invited to a gathering, bring a dish of food to share with everyone.

au-tradition

Source: Traditional Australian social custom/saying, public-domain oral tradition