barrack for
verb Ā· casual
To support a sports team.
How do Aussies use ābarrack forā?
- Who do you barrack for in the footy?
- I've barracked for the same team since I was a kid.
How to pronounce ābarrack forā
Say it like this: BA-ruk for
ābarrack forā in a conversation
Ben: So, who do you barrack for?
Priya: I'm new to footy, but my flatmates have got me barracking for their team.
What else should you know about ābarrack forā?
A very common question in Australia, especially about AFL. In British English, 'barrack' means to shout at or jeer at someone, so the Aussie meaning is the friendly one.
Where will you hear ābarrack forā?
You'll hear 'barrack for' at work, at school and at barbies, especially during the footy season. 'Who do you barrack for?' is one of the most common small-talk questions in Melbourne and other AFL cities.
How do you reply or use ābarrack forā yourself?
If someone asks 'Who do you barrack for?', just name a team, or say 'I don't really follow the footy yet. Who should I barrack for?' People love helping a newcomer choose a team.
More examples
- Our whole family barracks for the same team.
- Which team are you barracking for in the final?
- I barrack for my home town's team, even when they lose.
š§ 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 ābarrack forā?
Say 'barrack for' a team, not 'barrack' a team. Without 'for', it can sound like you're shouting at them.
What can you say instead in formal English?
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use support (a team) 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?
Who do you ___ ___ in the footy?
Show the answer
barrack for
Quick check
What does ābarrack forā mean?
- Something or someone excellent.
- To support a sports team.
- A chicken.
Show the answer
B. To support a sports team.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'barrack for' mean in Australia?
To support a sports team. A very common question in Australia, especially about AFL. In British English, 'barrack' means to shout at or jeer at someone, so the Aussie meaning is the friendly one.
Can I say 'barrack for' at work?
Yes. 'barrack for' 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 'barrack for'?
Say it like this: BA-ruk for. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'barrack for'?
You'll hear 'barrack for' at work, at school and at barbies, especially during the footy season. 'Who do you barrack for?' is one of the most common small-talk questions in Melbourne and other AFL cities.