Tassie
noun · casual
The island state of Tasmania, south of mainland Australia. It can also mean Tasmanian.
How do Aussies use ‘Tassie’?
- We're going to Tassie for a week in summer.
- She grew up in Tassie and moved to Melbourne for uni.
How to pronounce ‘Tassie’
Say it like this: TAZ-ee
‘Tassie’ in a conversation
Mum: Where are you going for the long weekend?
Ryan: Tassie! We're going to walk around Cradle Mountain.
What else should you know about ‘Tassie’?
Australians from every state say it, and so do Tasmanians themselves. You'll also hear 'Tassie devil' for the Tasmanian devil.
Where will you hear ‘Tassie’?
You'll hear 'Tassie' in holiday plans, on travel shows, in the news and from Tasmanians talking about home. You'll also see it on shop signs, food labels and tourism posters.
How do you reply or use ‘Tassie’ yourself?
If someone says 'I'm from Tassie', you can ask 'Which part?' or 'What should I see there?' Use the word yourself when you talk about travel: 'I'd love to visit Tassie.'
More examples
- We took the ferry across to Tassie with our car.
- Tassie gets cold in winter, so pack a warm jumper.
- We bought some Tassie cheese at the market.
🎧 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 ‘Tassie’?
It's spelled with a double S and said with a Z sound: TAZ-ee, not TASS-ee.
What can you say instead in formal English?
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use Tasmania 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?
We're flying to ___ to see Cradle Mountain.
Show the answer
Tassie
Quick check
What does ‘Tassie’ mean?
- Tracksuit pants, sweatpants.
- The island state of Tasmania, south of mainland Australia. It can also mean Tasmanian.
- It's OK; don't worry about it. Often said after someone says sorry or thank you.
Show the answer
B. The island state of Tasmania, south of mainland Australia. It can also mean Tasmanian.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Tassie' mean in Australia?
The island state of Tasmania, south of mainland Australia. It can also mean Tasmanian. Australians from every state say it, and so do Tasmanians themselves. You'll also hear 'Tassie devil' for the Tasmanian devil.
Can I say 'Tassie' at work?
Yes. 'Tassie' 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 'Tassie'?
Say it like this: TAZ-ee. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'Tassie'?
You'll hear 'Tassie' in holiday plans, on travel shows, in the news and from Tasmanians talking about home. You'll also see it on shop signs, food labels and tourism posters.