skerrick
noun · casual
A very small amount; a tiny bit.
How Aussies use it
- There's not a skerrick of milk left.
- He didn't eat a skerrick of his vegies.
How to pronounce ‘skerrick’
Say it like this: SKER-ik
‘skerrick’ in a conversation
Kate: Is there any cake left?
Dan: Sorry, not a skerrick. The kids found it.
Good to know
Usually used in negative sentences: 'not a skerrick', 'without a skerrick'.
Where you'll hear ‘skerrick’
You'll hear 'skerrick' when someone says there's nothing left, usually food, money or time. It's common at home and at work, almost always as 'not a skerrick' or 'not a skerrick left'.
How to reply or use it yourself
If someone says there's not a skerrick left, they mean it's all gone, so you might say 'No worries, I'll get more.' Use it yourself with 'not' for a fun way to say none.
More examples
- After the party, there wasn't a skerrick of food left.
- I haven't got a skerrick of energy after that run.
- She didn't leave a skerrick of mess in the kitchen.
A common mistake
It's almost always used with 'not' or 'no'. 'I have a skerrick of time' sounds odd.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use a tiny amount / none at all 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 kids ate everything. There's not a ___ of pizza left.
Show the answer
skerrick
Quick check
What does ‘skerrick’ mean?
- A tradesperson, such as a plumber, electrician or builder.
- A person who looks at or asks about other people's business; to have a look out of curiosity.
- A very small amount; a tiny bit.
Show the answer
C. A very small amount; a tiny bit.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'skerrick' mean in Australia?
A very small amount; a tiny bit. Usually used in negative sentences: 'not a skerrick', 'without a skerrick'.
Can I say 'skerrick' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'skerrick' 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 'skerrick'?
Say it like this: SKER-ik. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'skerrick'?
You'll hear 'skerrick' when someone says there's nothing left, usually food, money or time. It's common at home and at work, almost always as 'not a skerrick' or 'not a skerrick left'.