What does "Fair dinkum" mean?
It means genuine or true, and can emphasise that you really mean something. Said as a question, it can mean are you serious, often with surprise or disbelief.
Hear an Aussie say it
The saying
Fair dinkum
Example
Fair dinkum, that's the biggest fish I've seen.
How Aussies use it
Fishing off the pier
Liam: I caught a snapper this big off the pier this morning.
Kate: Fair dinkum? Show us a photo.
As a question, it means are you serious? A snapper is a fish, and show us means show me.
At work
Omar: The boss says we can all finish at three on Friday.
Hana: Fair dinkum? That's great news.
Hana is surprised and checking that it is true.
Talking with a friend
Mia: Are you really going to learn to surf this summer?
Jack: I'm fair dinkum. I've already booked the lessons.
I'm fair dinkum means I'm serious, I really mean it.
How to reply
- "Fair dinkum." If someone asks "Fair dinkum?", say it back to confirm it is true.
- "No way!" If someone tells you a fair dinkum story, show you are impressed.
When to use it
Use it in casual chat to say something is real or true, or as a question when you can hardly believe what you heard. It is a classic Aussie phrase, and people often say it with a grin.
When not to use it
In formal writing, use "genuine", "honest" or "really". Said sharply, "Fair dinkum?" can sound like you think the other person is lying, so watch your tone.
Where it comes from
Fair dinkum comes from British dialect. The Australian National Dictionary Centre says fair dinkum, meaning fair dealing, was recorded in Lincolnshire, England, in 1881. In Australia, the short form dinkum, meaning genuine or true, is first recorded in the 1890s.
Questions about "Fair dinkum"
Is fair dinkum rude?
No. It is not swearing, and it is fine in casual chat. Just watch your tone when you say it as a question, because it can sound like you doubt someone.
Do Aussies still say fair dinkum?
Yes. People still use it, especially to stress that something is true.
What does dinkum mean on its own?
The same thing: genuine or honest. A dinkum Aussie is a real, true Australian.
