flat chat
phrase · casual
Very busy; working as fast as possible.
How Aussies use it
- I've been flat chat all week.
- The café was flat chat during the lunch rush.
How to pronounce ‘flat chat’
Say it like this: flat CHAT
‘flat chat’ in a conversation
Nina: Sorry I didn't reply to your message.
Tom: No worries, I know you've been flat chat at work.
Good to know
It's like 'flat out'. People often say it when they explain why they haven't called or replied.
Where you'll hear ‘flat chat’
You'll hear 'flat chat' when people talk about busy times at work, in a shop or at home. It's common in replies like 'Sorry, I've been flat chat' and in descriptions of a busy rush.
How to reply or use it yourself
If a friend says they've been flat chat, they're explaining that they're very busy, so a kind reply is 'No worries, catch up when you can.' Use it yourself when you're running late or very busy.
More examples
- The restaurant was flat chat on Saturday night.
- We've been flat chat getting ready for the move.
- Sorry, I'm flat chat today. Can we talk tomorrow?
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
A common mistake
It has nothing to do with chatting. It means very busy.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use very busy / at full speed 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?
The shop has been ___ ___ since the sale started.
Show the answer
flat chat
Quick check
What does ‘flat chat’ mean?
- Friend; also a friendly way to address almost anyone.
- Hard work, especially physical work.
- Very busy; working as fast as possible.
Show the answer
C. Very busy; working as fast as possible.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'flat chat' mean in Australia?
Very busy; working as fast as possible. It's like 'flat out'. People often say it when they explain why they haven't called or replied.
Can I say 'flat chat' at work?
Yes. 'flat chat' 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 'flat chat'?
Say it like this: flat CHAT. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'flat chat'?
You'll hear 'flat chat' when people talk about busy times at work, in a shop or at home. It's common in replies like 'Sorry, I've been flat chat' and in descriptions of a busy rush.