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What does ‘catch ya later’ mean?

Aussie slang explained in plain English, with examples you can listen to.

catch ya later

phrase · casual

Goodbye; see you later.

How Aussies use it

  • Thanks for the help. Catch ya later!
  • I'm heading off now, catch ya later.

How to pronounce ‘catch ya later’

Say it like this: KETCH-ya LAY-ter

‘catch ya later’ in a conversation

Workmate: Have a good weekend!

Priya: You too. Catch ya later!

Good to know

A very common friendly goodbye between workmates, friends and neighbours.

Where you'll hear ‘catch ya later’

You'll hear 'catch ya later' every day in Australia: at work at the end of a shift, in shops, and when friends say goodbye. It's relaxed and friendly, and people often shorten it to 'catch ya'.

How to reply or use it yourself

When someone says 'Catch ya later', you can reply 'See ya!' or 'Catch ya!' It's a good, safe goodbye to use yourself with workmates and neighbours.

More examples

  • I'm off to the gym now, catch ya later.
  • The barista waved and said, 'Catch ya later, mate.'
  • Catch ya later, I'll text you about Friday.

A common mistake

It's a goodbye, not a plan. You don't have to meet them later.

Saying it more formally

In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use goodbye / see you later instead.

Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.

Fill the gap

Which word goes in the gap?

Thanks for coming. ___ ___ ___!

Show the answer

Catch ya later

Quick check

What does ‘catch ya later’ mean?

  1. Genuine, honest, true. Also used as a question meaning 'really?'.
  2. Goodbye; see you later.
  3. An expression of surprise.
Show the answer

B. Goodbye; see you later.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'catch ya later' mean in Australia?

Goodbye; see you later. A very common friendly goodbye between workmates, friends and neighbours.

Can I say 'catch ya later' at work?

Yes. 'catch ya later' is fine in most workplaces, in conversation and casual messages. In formal emails, reports and English tests, use more standard English.

How do you pronounce 'catch ya later'?

Say it like this: KETCH-ya LAY-ter. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.

When do Australians say 'catch ya later'?

You'll hear 'catch ya later' every day in Australia: at work at the end of a shift, in shops, and when friends say goodbye. It's relaxed and friendly, and people often shorten it to 'catch ya'.

More Aussie words

Test yourself with the slang quiz