Aussies often use the phrase “far out” to express enthusiasm, surprise, or approval. This phrase has become a popular way for Australians to express themselves, and it’s a great example of how Aussies have taken a phrase from the past and given it their own twist. In this article, we’ll explore the origin of the phrase, the various ways it can be used, and the different contexts in which it makes sense to use it. So, why do Aussies say far out? Read on to find out!
The History of ‘Far Out’ in Australia
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The phrase ‘far out’ has been used in Australia since the 1950s and has become a part of the Australian vernacular. It is a slang term used to express approval, excitement, or surprise, and is generally considered a positive exclamation. But what does it mean and where did it come from?
Origins of the Term
The origin of the phrase ‘far out’ is not entirely clear. Some believe that it originated from the phrase ‘far out, man’ which was popularized by the beatniks in the 1950s. The beatniks were a subculture of young people who rejected mainstream social conventions and embraced an alternative lifestyle based on creativity and non-conformity. The phrase ‘far out, man’ was used to express approval or admiration of something, and it is thought that this phrase eventually evolved into the more succinct ‘far out’.
Others believe that the phrase ‘far out’ comes from the surfing culture of the 1960s. In the surfing world, ‘far out’ was used to describe a particularly good wave, or an impressive feat or trick. It is thought that this phrase eventually made its way into mainstream slang and became a part of the Australian vernacular.
Usage of the Term
Today, the phrase ‘far out’ is used in a variety of contexts. It is often used to express approval, excitement, or surprise. For example, ‘That’s far out!’ or ‘Far out, that’s awesome!’ It is also sometimes used to express disbelief, as in ‘Far out, I can’t believe that happened!’
In addition to its use as an exclamation, ‘far out’ can also be used as an adjective. For example, ‘That was a far out experience’ or ‘That’s a far out idea’. It can also be used to describe a person, as in ‘He’s a far out guy’.
Contemporary Usage
The phrase ‘far out’ is still used in contemporary Australian slang. It is a popular phrase among young people, particularly those in their teens and twenties. It is often used as an exclamation or to express approval or excitement.
However, the phrase ‘far out’ is also used by older people in Australia. It is seen as a nostalgic phrase, harkening back to the days of the beatniks and surfers of the 1950s and 1960s. It is often used with a sense of irony or nostalgia, as in ‘Far out, that brings back memories’.
Conclusion
The phrase ‘far out’ has been used in Australia since the 1950s, and it is still used in contemporary Australian slang. It is a popular phrase among young people, as well as older people who use it with a sense of nostalgia. The origin of the phrase is unclear, but it is believed to have come from the beatniks of the 1950s or the surfers of the 1960s. Regardless of its origin, ‘far out’ has become a part of the Australian vernacular and is used to express approval, excitement, or surprise.
Common Myths About Aussie Slang
Myth: Far Out is an Australian phrase.
Truth: Far Out is an American phrase that originated in the 1960s and was adopted by Australians. It was made popular by the hippie culture of the time and has since become part of the Australian vernacular.
Myth: Far Out is used to express agreement.
Truth: Far Out is typically used to express excitement or approval. It can also be used as an expression of surprise or astonishment.
Myth: Far Out is only used by Australians.
Truth: While it is most commonly used by Australians, Far Out is also used by people in other countries as well. It has become a popular phrase in English-speaking countries around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Aussies say far out?
Answer: Far out is an expression used by Australians to express approval, excitement, or agreement. It is usually used in response to something cool, exciting, or unexpected.
Conclusion
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The phrase “far out” has been used in Australia since the 1950s. It is a slang term used to express approval, excitement, or surprise and is considered a positive exclamation. Its origin is uncertain but is believed to have come from the beatniks of the 1950s or the surfers of the 1960s. It is still popular among young people, but older people also use it with a sense of nostalgia. It is used as an exclamation, an adjective, and to describe a person. “Far out” has become a part of the Australian vernacular and is used to express positive feelings.
