thongs
noun · casual
Flip-flops, rubber sandals.
How Aussies use it
- Wear thongs to the beach.
- No thongs allowed on the worksite.
How to pronounce ‘thongs’
Say it like this: THONGZ
‘thongs’ in a conversation
Friend: Is it OK to wear thongs to the pub?
Local: At the beach pubs, yeah. Not at fancy restaurants.
Good to know
A common surprise for visitors: in Australia, thongs go on your feet.
A common mistake
In Australia, thongs are footwear. In the US, a thong is underwear. Be careful when travelling!
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use flip-flops instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘thongs’ mean?
- A very remote, faraway place in the middle of nowhere.
- Flip-flops, rubber sandals.
- Sick or unwell. Can also mean broken or not working well.
Show the answer
B. Flip-flops, rubber sandals.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'thongs' mean in Australia?
Flip-flops, rubber sandals. A common surprise for visitors: in Australia, thongs go on your feet.
Can I say 'thongs' at work?
With workmates, yes. 'thongs' 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 'thongs'?
Say it like this: THONGZ. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.