crook
adjective · casual
Sick or unwell. Can also mean broken or not working well.
How Aussies use it
- I'm feeling a bit crook today, so I'm staying home.
- The printer's crook again.
How to pronounce ‘crook’
Say it like this: KROOK
‘crook’ in a conversation
Supervisor: Where's Matt today?
Jo: He's crook. Called in sick this morning.
Good to know
Don't confuse it with 'a crook', which means a criminal.
A common mistake
In Australian slang 'crook' usually means sick, but in standard English 'a crook' is a criminal. Context tells you which.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use unwell instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘crook’ mean?
- McDonald's.
- Sick or unwell. Can also mean broken or not working well.
- A portable cooler box for keeping food and drinks cold.
Show the answer
B. Sick or unwell. Can also mean broken or not working well.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'crook' mean in Australia?
Sick or unwell. Can also mean broken or not working well. Don't confuse it with 'a crook', which means a criminal.
Can I say 'crook' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'crook' is fine in a chat at smoko or a casual message, but don't use it with clients, in formal emails, or in the PTE and IELTS writing tests.
How do you pronounce 'crook'?
Say it like this: KROOK. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.