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[0848] Thongs

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English Idioms
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Explanation

  • In Australian English, thongs refers to casual footwear consisting of a flat sole held on the foot by a Y-shaped strap passing between the big toe and the second toe.
  • This type of footwear is known as flip-flops in most other English-speaking countries.

Origin

  • The use of thong for this type of footwear dates back to at least the mid-20th century in Australia. The exact reason for this specific naming is unclear, perhaps relating to the thin thong-like strap.
  • It predates the widespread use of thong to mean a type of G-string underwear in other English varieties.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • Flip-flops (Most common term internationally US, UK, Canada etc.)
  • Jandals (New Zealand specific term)
  • Sandals (A broader category that includes thongs/flip-flops)
  • Go-aheads (Older, less common US term)
  • Slaps / Slippers (Hawaii Pidgin/local usage)
  • Plakkies (South Africa)

Alternatives

Slang/Informal (Regional names for the footwear):

  • Flip-flops (International standard informal)
  • Jandals (NZ)
  • Slaps / Slippers (Hawaii)
  • Plakkies (South Africa)

Milder/Standard:

  • Flip-flops (Safest international term)
  • Sandals (More general)

Word referring to underwear (The *other* meaning):

  • Thong (US/UK sense)
  • G-string

Situational Appropriateness

  • Informal. Refers to very casual footwear.
  • The crucial point is regional variation and the *other* meaning. Within Australia, it's completely normal and understood by everyone. Outside Australia, extreme caution is required.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • **EXTREME WARNING.** This is one of the most famous examples of regional English variation causing misunderstanding.
  • If an Australian talks about wearing thongs to Americans, Brits, etc., it will almost certainly be misinterpreted as talking about underwear. Context (beach, feet) might eventually clarify, but initial confusion/awkwardness is guaranteed.
  • Australians travelling or speaking internationally often learn to use flip-flops to avoid this issue. Similarly, visitors to Australia might be confused initially.

Examples

  • It's hot today, I'm just gonna wear shorts and thongs.
  • Don't forget to pack your thongs for the beach.
  • Ouch, I broke my thong! (Referring to the strap snapping).

Dialogue

Parent: We're going to the pool, have you got your thongs?

Child: Yep, got 'em right here!

Parent: Okay, let's go.

Social Media Examples

  • Instagram post (from Australia): Beach day essentials: sunscreen, towel, and trusty thongs! ☀️ #Summer #Australia #Beach
  • Facebook (Australian group): Where's the best place to buy cheap thongs in Melbourne?

Response Patterns

  • Usually involves simple acknowledgement or relates to the context (beach, casual wear, summer).
  • Okay, good idea.
  • Are thongs okay to wear there?
  • Where did I leave my thongs?

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • Putting on the footwear.
  • Looking for a misplaced pair.
  • Discussing whether they are appropriate footwear for a specific place or event.
  • Buying a new pair.

Conversation Starter

  • No.
  • Used when discussing footwear, clothing, or activities like going to the beach/pool.

Intonation

  • Neutral, matter-of-fact when referring to the footwear.

Generation Differences

  • Used by all generations in Australia.

Regional Variations

  • Primarily Australian English.
  • New Zealand uses Jandals.
  • US, UK, Canada, and most other English-speaking regions use flip-flops.
  • CRITICAL POINT: In the US, UK, and many other places, thong refers exclusively to a type of revealing underwear (G-string). This difference is a major source of potential embarrassment or humour.
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