mate
noun · casual
Friend; also a friendly way to address almost anyone.
How Aussies use it
- Thanks, mate.
- He's been my mate since uni.
Good to know
Australians use 'mate' with friends, strangers and workmates. The tone matters: 'Mate!' can also show annoyance.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use friend instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.