footy
noun · casual
Football. In Victoria, SA, WA and Tasmania this usually means Australian Rules (AFL). In NSW and Queensland it usually means rugby league.
How Aussies use it
- Are you watching the footy tonight?
- The kids play footy on Saturday mornings.
How to pronounce ‘footy’
Say it like this: FOOT-ee
‘footy’ in a conversation
Workmate: Did you watch the footy on the weekend?
Kai: Yeah, what a game! Which team do you go for?
Good to know
Which code people mean depends on where you are. Ask 'AFL or league?' if unsure.
Can I say ‘footy’ at work?
Yes. 'footy' is fine in most workplaces, in conversation and casual messages. In formal emails, reports and English tests, use more standard English.
A common mistake
Which game 'footy' means depends on where you are: AFL in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth; rugby league in Sydney and Brisbane.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use football instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Quick check
What does ‘footy’ mean?
- Football. In Victoria, SA, WA and Tasmania this usually means Australian Rules (AFL). In NSW and Queensland it usually means rugby league.
- A service station, petrol station.
- Very tired, exhausted.
Show the answer
A. Football. In Victoria, SA, WA and Tasmania this usually means Australian Rules (AFL). In NSW and Queensland it usually means rugby league.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'footy' mean in Australia?
Football. In Victoria, SA, WA and Tasmania this usually means Australian Rules (AFL). In NSW and Queensland it usually means rugby league. Which code people mean depends on where you are. Ask 'AFL or league?' if unsure.
Can I say 'footy' at work?
Yes. 'footy' 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 'footy'?
Say it like this: FOOT-ee. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.