What does "Good on ya mate" mean?
It means well done or good for you. It is praise between mates, often for effort as much as for the result.
Hear an Aussie say it
The saying
Good on ya mate
Example
You passed your exams? Good on ya mate.
How Aussies use it
Good news from a friend
Priya: I got the job at the hospital!
Liam: Good on ya, mate! You worked hard for that.
Liam is praising Priya for the result and for her hard work.
At the beach
Ben: I finally stood up on the board today.
Grace: Good on ya! First time?
The board is a surfboard. Grace is praising Ben's effort.
At the shops
Chloe: Is this your wallet? It was on the floor.
Ray: It is! Good on ya, mate. Thanks heaps.
Here it means thank you, you did the right thing. Heaps means a lot.
How to reply
- "Cheers!" Cheers means thanks.
- "Thanks, mate." Simple and friendly.
When to use it
Use it to praise someone for doing well, trying hard or doing the right thing. Ya is how Aussies often say you, and mate keeps it friendly. You will also hear good on you, which is the same thing said more carefully. It suits friends, family and workmates.
When not to use it
It is too casual for a formal reference, a job review or an email to a client. Write "well done" or "congratulations" instead. It can also be said sarcastically, so watch your tone.
Questions about "Good on ya mate"
Is good on ya sarcastic?
Usually not. It is normally real praise. Said in a flat voice after a mistake, though, it can be sarcastic, like saying "nice one".
What does ya mean?
Ya means you, said the relaxed Aussie way. You will also hear it in see ya (see you) and how ya going (how are you).
Can you say good on ya to anyone?
Yes, in casual chat. You can drop mate or keep it. Mate is used for women and men.
