heaps
adverb / noun · casual
A lot, very much.
How Aussies use it
- Thanks heaps!
- There were heaps of people at the beach.
How to pronounce ‘heaps’
Say it like this: HEEPS
‘heaps’ in a conversation
Host: Have some more pasta, there's heaps.
Guest: Thanks heaps, it's delicious.
Good to know
Extremely common in everyday speech. 'Thanks heaps' is like 'thanks very much'.
A common mistake
'Thanks heaps' is very common. In formal writing use 'many', 'a lot of' or 'very much'.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use a lot, very much instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘heaps’ mean?
- Very happy, thrilled.
- A mosquito.
- A lot, very much.
Show the answer
C. A lot, very much.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'heaps' mean in Australia?
A lot, very much. Extremely common in everyday speech. 'Thanks heaps' is like 'thanks very much'.
Can I say 'heaps' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'heaps' 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 'heaps'?
Say it like this: HEEPS. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.