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What does ‘righto’ mean?

In Australian slang, ‘righto’ means: OK; all right. Used to agree, or to move on to the next thing. Below: how Aussies use it, with examples you can listen to.

righto

interjection · casual

OK; all right. Used to agree, or to move on to the next thing.

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How do Aussies use ‘righto’?

  • Righto, let's get going.
  • 'Dinner's at seven.' 'Righto.'

How to pronounce ‘righto’

Say it like this: RY-toh

‘righto’ in a conversation

Dad: We need to leave in five minutes.

Mia: Righto, I'll grab my shoes.

What else should you know about ‘righto’?

Australians often use it to start or finish something: 'Righto, everyone, let's begin.' It sounds relaxed and friendly.

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Where will you hear ‘righto’?

You'll hear 'righto' everywhere: at work, at home, in shops and on building sites. A teacher, a coach or a manager might say 'Righto' to get everyone's attention before they start.

How do you reply or use ‘righto’ yourself?

If someone tells you something and you understand, you can simply say 'Righto.' It's also a friendly way to start: 'Righto, what's next?'

More examples

  • Righto, I'll see you at three.
  • 'The meeting's moved to Room 2.' 'Righto, thanks.'
  • Righto, kids, time for bed.

🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.

What mistake do learners make with ‘righto’?

It doesn't mean 'that's correct'. It just means 'OK, I've heard you'.

What can you say instead in formal English?

In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use OK / all right 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?

'We're leaving now.' '___, I'm coming.'

Show the answer

Righto

Quick check

What does ‘righto’ mean?

  1. A foam holder that keeps a can or bottle of drink cold.
  2. It'll be okay; don't worry about it.
  3. OK; all right. Used to agree, or to move on to the next thing.
Show the answer

C. OK; all right. Used to agree, or to move on to the next thing.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'righto' mean in Australia?

OK; all right. Used to agree, or to move on to the next thing. Australians often use it to start or finish something: 'Righto, everyone, let's begin.' It sounds relaxed and friendly.

Can I say 'righto' at work?

With workmates, yes. 'righto' 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 'righto'?

Say it like this: RY-toh. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.

When do Australians say 'righto'?

You'll hear 'righto' everywhere: at work, at home, in shops and on building sites. A teacher, a coach or a manager might say 'Righto' to get everyone's attention before they start.

More Aussie words

Test yourself with the slang quiz

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