用你的语言查看此页面

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

हिन्दी

B1 noun #2 最常用 15分钟阅读

barbie

前2

The word 'barbie' is a special Australian word for 'barbecue'. A barbecue is when you cook food outside on a grill. In Australia, people love to eat outside because the weather is often sunny and warm. When an Australian says 'barbie', they mean the machine that cooks the food, and they also mean the party with friends. For example, you can say, 'I have a barbie in my garden.' It is a very friendly and happy word. You use it with your family and friends. It is not a formal word, so you don't use it at school in a serious way. Just remember: Barbie = Barbecue. It is easy to say and very common in Australia. If you go to Australia, you will see many people having a barbie in the park or at the beach. They cook sausages and meat. It is a fun way to eat dinner!

In Australia, 'barbie' is the common, informal name for a barbecue. It is a noun that describes both the grill used for cooking and the social event where people gather to eat. Australians often shorten long words and add '-ie' at the end, which is why 'barbecue' becomes 'barbie'. You will hear this word very often during the summer. People 'have a barbie' on weekends. It is a very casual event, so you don't need to wear fancy clothes. You can say, 'Let's have a barbie this Saturday.' You can also use it to talk about the grill itself: 'The barbie is hot, be careful!' It is important to know that in other countries like the USA, 'Barbie' is the name of a famous doll. But in Australia, if you are talking about food, everyone knows you mean a barbecue. It is a great word to use if you want to sound like a local Australian.

At the B1 level, you should understand that 'barbie' is an informal Australian hypocorism for 'barbecue'. It is a versatile noun used to describe the outdoor cooking apparatus and the social gathering centered around it. Culturally, the 'barbie' is a symbol of the relaxed Australian lifestyle. It is typically held in backyards or public parks. Common phrases include 'throwing a barbie' (organizing one) or 'firing up the barbie' (starting the grill). You should be aware of the register; 'barbie' is informal and best suited for conversations with friends, family, or casual acquaintances. In a professional or formal written context, 'barbecue' is more appropriate. Also, note the typical foods associated with an Australian barbie, such as 'snags' (sausages) and 'prawns'. Using 'barbie' correctly shows that you are familiar with Australian English conventions and social norms.

The term 'barbie' is a quintessential element of the Australian vernacular, representing a significant cultural institution. As a B2 learner, you should recognize it as an informal noun that encapsulates the egalitarian and outdoor-oriented nature of Australian society. It is a classic example of the Australian tendency to use diminutives to create a sense of 'mateship' and informality. While 'barbecue' is the standard English term, 'barbie' is the preferred spoken form in Australia. You should be able to use it in various idiomatic contexts, such as 'a backyard barbie' or 'a beach barbie'. It is also important to distinguish it from the American usage where 'Barbie' refers to the Mattel doll. In Australia, the context of food and outdoor cooking makes the meaning clear. Furthermore, you should understand the social etiquette of a barbie, which often involves a 'bring your own' (BYO) approach to drinks and sometimes meat, reflecting the casual, communal spirit the word evokes.

For C1 learners, 'barbie' serves as a key entry point into the nuances of Australian sociolinguistics. It is more than just a synonym for 'barbecue'; it is a cultural signifier that denotes a specific type of social interaction characterized by informality, egalitarianism, and a connection to the landscape. The word's evolution—from the 17th-century Spanish 'barbacoa' to the modern Australian 'barbie'—reflects the adaptation of global concepts into local identities. You should be comfortable using 'barbie' to navigate social situations in Australia, understanding that its use fosters a sense of belonging and 'Aussie' identity. Additionally, you should be aware of the linguistic patterns it represents, such as the '-ie' suffix which is applied to numerous other words (e.g., 'brekkie' for breakfast, 'moshie' for mosquito). At this level, you can also appreciate the irony in famous cultural exports like the 'shrimp on the barbie' campaign, recognizing how language is sometimes manipulated for international marketing while remaining distinct in its native environment.

At the C2 level, the word 'barbie' can be analyzed as a focal point of Australian cultural semiotics. It represents the intersection of domesticity, public space, and national myth-making. The 'barbie' is a site where the Australian 'mateship' ethos is performed and reinforced. Linguistically, the term is a prime example of hypocorism, a morphological process that reduces the social distance between speakers. You should be able to discuss the 'barbie' in the context of Australian post-war suburbanization and its role in defining the 'Australian Way of Life'. Furthermore, you should be adept at identifying the subtle shifts in register where 'barbie' might be used ironically or as a way to establish rapport in high-level but culturally grounded discourse. Understanding the 'barbie' also involves recognizing its role in public policy, such as the provision of communal grilling facilities in urban planning, which reflects a commitment to shared public leisure. As a C2 speaker, you use 'barbie' not just as a vocabulary item, but as a tool for deep cultural integration and nuanced social commentary.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

barbie 30秒了解

An informal Australian noun meaning 'barbecue', used for the grill and the party.
A central part of Australian culture, emphasizing casual outdoor social gatherings.
Commonly paired with verbs like 'throw', 'host', or 'fire up' in everyday speech.
Distinct from the 'Barbie' doll; it is a key example of Australian hypocorism.

The term barbie is a quintessential example of Australian English hypocorism—the linguistic practice of shortening words and adding a suffix, usually '-ie' or '-o'. In this context, 'barbie' is the informal, highly common noun used to describe a barbecue. It refers simultaneously to the physical apparatus used for grilling food outdoors and the social event itself. To understand the word 'barbie' is to understand a core pillar of Australian social life. It is not merely a method of cooking; it is a cultural ritual that signifies relaxation, community, and the egalitarian spirit of the 'Great Outdoors'. While the rest of the English-speaking world might use 'BBQ' or 'cookout', an Australian will almost exclusively invite you to a 'barbie'. This usage is deeply embedded in the national identity, popularized globally by tourism campaigns in the 1980s, though often misunderstood by those outside the continent. In Australia, a barbie is where friendships are forged over sizzling sausages and where the heat of the sun is matched only by the heat of the grill plate.

The Social Context: A barbie is typically an informal gathering held in backyards, public parks, or at the beach. It is the default setting for birthdays, public holidays like Australia Day, and casual weekend get-togethers.

"We're having a few mates over for a barbie this Sunday afternoon, so bring some drinks and your swimmers!"

The term is used across all demographics in Australia. Whether you are in a rural outback town or a high-rise apartment in Sydney with a balcony grill, the word remains the same. It carries a connotation of 'no worries' and 'come as you are'. When someone says they are 'firing up the barbie', they are signaling a transition from the stresses of work or formal life into a space of leisure. It is important to note that the term is almost never used in formal writing or professional settings unless the intent is to sound intentionally colloquial or 'Aussie'. For a learner, using 'barbie' correctly signals a high level of cultural awareness and an attempt to integrate into the local vernacular. It is one of the first slang words a visitor to Australia will encounter and likely the one they will use most frequently during the summer months.

The Physical Object: The 'barbie' itself can range from a sophisticated six-burner gas range to a simple wood-fired plate in a public park. In many Australian parks, the government provides free electric or gas barbies for public use.

"Can you go outside and clean the barbie? It's still got some grease on it from last night."

Historically, the barbie became a staple of Australian life in the post-World War II era as suburban backyards grew and the climate encouraged outdoor dining. The word itself gained international fame through Paul Hogan's 'Come and Say G'day' tourism ads in the 1980s, where he famously promised to 'slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you'. Interestingly, Australians actually call them 'prawns', not 'shrimp', making the famous phrase a bit of a linguistic compromise for the American market. Despite this, the word 'barbie' remains the undisputed king of Australian food terminology. It evokes the smell of eucalyptus smoke, the sound of sizzling meat, and the feeling of a cold drink in hand on a hot day. It is a word that bridges the gap between a simple meal and a national pastime.

Linguistic Evolution: The suffix '-ie' is a marker of endearment and informality. By turning 'barbecue' into 'barbie', the speaker reduces the formality of the event, making it more approachable and friendly.

"Don't bother dressing up for the barbie; it's just a casual thing in the backyard."

"We forgot the tongs for the barbie, so I had to use a fork to turn the snags."

Using the word barbie correctly requires an understanding of its informal register. While it is grammatically simple—acting as a standard countable noun—its placement in a sentence often reflects the relaxed Australian lifestyle. You will most frequently see it paired with verbs like 'have', 'host', 'fire up', or 'throw'. For example, 'throwing a barbie' is a common idiom meaning to organize a barbecue party. The word is versatile enough to describe the event, the equipment, and even the style of food. When using it, you should be mindful of your audience; while perfectly acceptable in a casual conversation with an Australian boss, it might feel out of place in a formal written report or a serious academic setting.

Common Verb Pairings: Australians 'fire up' the barbie when they start the heat, and they 'throw' a barbie when they invite people over. You can also 'clean' the barbie or 'stand around' the barbie.

"I'll fire up the barbie as soon as the cricket finishes on TV."

In terms of sentence structure, 'barbie' often appears in the object position. Because it is a noun, it can be modified by adjectives to give more detail about the event. You might hear about a 'massive barbie', a 'quiet barbie', or a 'Christmas barbie'. It is also frequently used in prepositional phrases, such as 'on the barbie' or 'at the barbie'. These phrases help specify whether you are talking about the food being cooked or the location of the social interaction. For instance, 'the snags are on the barbie' refers to the cooking process, whereas 'I saw him at the barbie' refers to the event. This distinction is usually clear from the context of the conversation.

Prepositional Usage: 'On the barbie' is the most common phrase for cooking. 'At the barbie' refers to the social gathering. 'Around the barbie' describes the typical Australian social grouping.

"We spent the whole afternoon just standing around the barbie and chatting about the footy."

Another interesting way 'barbie' is used is in compound structures or as a modifier. While not a formal adjective, it can describe things associated with the event. You might hear about 'barbie weather' (sunny and warm) or 'barbie tongs'. In Australian slang, it is also part of the phrase 'sausage sizzle', which is a specific type of barbie often held for charity or at hardware stores. While 'barbie' is the general term, 'sausage sizzle' is the specific event. Understanding these nuances helps a learner sound more like a native speaker. Remember, the word is almost always singular when referring to the event ('we're having a barbie'), even if multiple grills are being used.

Compound and Modified Uses: 'Barbie tools', 'barbie meat', and 'barbie season' are common ways to extend the word's utility in everyday speech.

"It's perfect barbie weather today, not a cloud in the sky and a nice breeze."

"I need to buy some new barbie cleaners because the plate is getting really crusty."

The word barbie is ubiquitous across the Australian continent. You will hear it in the bustling suburbs of Melbourne, the tropical reaches of Queensland, and the remote stations of the Northern Territory. It is perhaps the most 'geographic' word in the Australian lexicon because it is so tied to the physical environment. In coastal areas, the 'beach barbie' is a standard weekend activity. In the city, the 'balcony barbie' is the urban equivalent. Because Australia has a culture that revolves around the outdoors, the word is heard in almost every social context that involves food and friends. It is a word that transcends class; from the Prime Minister to a construction worker, everyone 'has a barbie'.

Public Spaces: Public parks in Australia are famous for their coin-operated or free electric barbies. You will hear families discussing who is going to 'claim the barbie' at the park on a busy Saturday morning.

"If we want to get the barbie by the lake, we'd better get to the park by 10 AM."

Beyond the physical location, you will hear 'barbie' in Australian media and advertising constantly. It is used to sell everything from outdoor furniture to insect repellent. In television shows like 'Home and Away' or 'Neighbours', the 'barbie' is a frequent plot device where characters gather to resolve conflicts or celebrate milestones. It is also a staple of Australian comedy, often used to poke fun at national stereotypes. However, the most common place to hear it is in the simple, everyday planning of social life. A text message saying 'Barbie at mine, 5pm' is a standard invitation that requires no further explanation. It is the shorthand for Australian hospitality.

Retail and Commerce: Hardware stores like Bunnings are famous for their 'Sausage Sizzles', which are essentially community barbies. You'll hear people asking, 'Are they doing a barbie today?' as they walk into the store.

"I'm just heading to Bunnings for some lightbulbs and a snag from the barbie out front."

In addition to social and commercial settings, 'barbie' is heard in the context of sports. It is very common for local sports clubs—whether it's cricket, footy, or netball—to host a barbie after a match or training session. This 'post-match barbie' is where the community bonds. You'll hear coaches and parents coordinating who is bringing the bread rolls and who is 'manning the barbie'. This reinforces the word's connection to community and teamwork. Even in high-end real estate, a 'built-in barbie' is a major selling point for Australian homes, showing that the word has a place in the luxury market as well as the casual one. It is truly a word that lives in the air of the Australian environment.

Sports and Clubs: Local clubs use the barbie as a primary fundraising tool. 'The club barbie' is a fixture of Saturday morning junior sports across the country.

"After the grand final, the whole team is going back to the clubhouse for a victory barbie."

"The real estate agent said the house has a great outdoor entertaining area with a plumbed-in barbie."

The most frequent mistake learners make with the word barbie is a lack of awareness regarding its regional specificity. While it is a perfectly standard word in Australia and New Zealand, using it in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada might lead to confusion. In those regions, 'Barbie' almost exclusively refers to the famous fashion doll made by Mattel. If you tell an American, 'I'm going to put some meat on the Barbie,' they might look at you with horror, imagining you are destroying a child's toy. Therefore, the first rule of using 'barbie' is knowing your location. If you are not in Australia or talking to an Australian, it is safer to use 'barbecue' or 'BBQ'.

The 'Doll' Confusion: Always capitalize 'Barbie' when referring to the doll, and use lowercase 'barbie' for the grill. However, in spoken English, context is the only way to distinguish them.

"I bought my niece a Barbie (doll) for her birthday, but we're having a barbie (food) for the party."

Another common error is misusing the word as a verb. In standard English, 'barbecue' can be both a noun ('We had a barbecue') and a verb ('We barbecued some chicken'). However, 'barbie' is almost strictly a noun. You would rarely hear an Australian say, 'I'm going to barbie some steaks.' Instead, they would say, 'I'm going to cook some steaks on the barbie' or 'We're having a barbie.' Using it as a verb sounds unnatural and is a clear sign of a non-native speaker trying too hard to use slang. Stick to using it as a noun for the event or the equipment to maintain a natural flow.

Verb vs. Noun: Incorrect: "Let's barbie tonight!" Correct: "Let's have a barbie tonight!" or "Let's fire up the barbie!"

"We had a barbie (noun) last night, and the steaks were perfect."

Finally, there is the 'shrimp' mistake. As mentioned before, Australians do not call them 'shrimp'; they call them 'prawns'. If you use the word 'barbie' and then talk about 'shrimp', you are mixing a genuine Australian term with an Americanized stereotype. To sound authentic, pair 'barbie' with other Australian food terms like 'snags' (sausages), 'chops' (lamb chops), or 'prawns'. Also, be careful with the plural. While 'barbies' is the correct plural, it is much more common to talk about the event in the singular. Saying 'We went to many barbies this summer' is fine, but 'We are having barbies' sounds like you are hosting multiple separate barbecue events at the same time.

Vocabulary Pairing: Pair 'barbie' with 'snags', 'prawns', and 'coldies' (cold drinks) for maximum authenticity. Avoid 'shrimp' unless you want to sound like a tourist.

"Throw some prawns on the barbie—not shrimp!"

"I'm bringing a pack of snags for the barbie, so we'll have plenty of food."

While barbie is the dominant informal term in Australia, there are several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific region you are in. The most obvious alternative is the full word, 'barbecue'. This is used in more formal contexts or when the speaker wants to be very clear. 'BBQ' is the standard written abbreviation, commonly seen on signs, menus, and in text messages. While 'barbie' is the spoken preference, 'BBQ' is the visual preference. Understanding when to use each helps in navigating the balance between casual speech and clear communication.

Barbecue vs. Barbie: 'Barbecue' is the formal noun/verb. 'Barbie' is the informal Australian noun. Use 'barbecue' in a business invitation; use 'barbie' with friends.

"The company is hosting an annual barbecue for all staff and their families."

Another related term is 'sausage sizzle'. While a barbie can involve steaks, chops, prawns, and vegetables, a 'sausage sizzle' is a very specific, simplified version of a barbie. It usually consists only of sausages (snags) served on a single slice of white bread with grilled onions and tomato sauce. These are often held for charity (like the famous 'Bunnings Snag'). If someone invites you to a 'sausage sizzle', do not expect a full gourmet meal; expect a quick, delicious snack. In American English, the equivalent of a barbie might be a 'cookout' or a 'grill-out', though these terms lack the specific cultural weight that 'barbie' carries in Australia.

Sausage Sizzle: A specific type of barbie focused on fundraising or quick community meals. It is a subset of the broader 'barbie' category.

"We're running a sausage sizzle at the school fete to raise money for new books."

For those looking for more descriptive terms, you might hear 'grill' used as a noun, especially in American English ('Put it on the grill'). In Australia, 'the grill' usually refers to the part of the oven inside the house, whereas 'the barbie' is the outdoor unit. This is a crucial distinction to avoid confusion when someone asks you to 'put the toast under the grill'. Other alternatives include 'roast' (if the meat is cooked whole) or 'spit-roast' (if the meat is turned on a rod). However, none of these terms capture the social essence of the 'barbie'. It remains the most evocative and commonly used term for outdoor dining in the Southern Hemisphere.

Regional Alternatives: US: Cookout, BBQ, Grill-out. South Africa: Braai. UK: Barbecue. Australia: Barbie, Sausage Sizzle.

"When I lived in Texas, we called it a cookout, but here in Brisbane, it's definitely a barbie."

"My South African neighbors invited us over for a braai, which is very similar to our barbies."

How Formal Is It?

正式

"We would be honored if you could attend our annual garden barbecue."

中性

"Are we having a barbecue for the party on Saturday?"

非正式

"Let's have a barbie this weekend, I'll get the snags."

Child friendly

"Yay! We're having a barbie in the park today!"

俚语

"Chuck some snags on the barbie and grab a coldie."

趣味小知识

The Australian version 'barbie' became a global cultural icon in the 1980s due to a tourism advertisement featuring actor Paul Hogan, though he used the word 'shrimp' instead of the local 'prawn' to avoid confusing Americans.

发音指南

UK /ˈbɑː.bi/

US /ˈbɑːr.bi/

The stress is on the first syllable: BAR-bie.

押韵词

darby harby carby party (near rhyme) hearty (near rhyme) tardy (near rhyme) army (near rhyme) balmy (near rhyme)

常见错误

Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly in an Australian context.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'baby'.
Making the 'ie' sound too long.
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Spelling it 'Barby'.

难度评级

阅读 2/5

Easy to recognize in context, though spelling might be confused with the doll.

写作 3/5

Requires knowledge of informal register and regional appropriateness.

口语 2/5

Simple to pronounce, but requires an understanding of Australian tone.

听力 3/5

Can be missed if the listener is expecting the full word 'barbecue'.

接下来学什么

前置知识

barbecue grill outside party food

接下来学习

snag esky mate brekkie arvo

高级

hypocorism vernacular egalitarianism sociolinguistics semiotics

需要掌握的语法

Australian Hypocorisms

Barbecue -> Barbie, Breakfast -> Brekkie, Mosquito -> Mozzie.

Countable Nouns

We had two barbies last week.

Zero Article in Phrases

We're having barbie tonight (informal/rare) vs We're having a barbie.

Compound Noun Formation

Barbie + weather = barbie weather.

Prepositional Phrases of Location

The meat is *on* the barbie.

按水平分级的例句

We have a barbie in the garden.

Nous avons un barbecue dans le jardin.

Simple present tense with 'have'.

I like the barbie.

J'aime le barbecue.

Subject + verb + object.

The barbie is hot.

Le barbecue est chaud.

Adjective 'hot' describing the noun.

Can we have a barbie?

Pouvons-nous faire un barbecue ?

Question form with 'can'.

My dad is at the barbie.

Mon père est au barbecue.

Preposition 'at' for location.

We eat sausages at the barbie.

Nous mangeons des saucisses au barbecue.

Present simple for a regular action.

It is a sunny day for a barbie.

C'est une journée ensoleillée pour un barbecue.

Noun used in a prepositional phrase.

The barbie is big.

Le barbecue est grand.

Simple descriptive sentence.

Let's have a barbie this weekend.

Faisons un barbecue ce week-end.

'Let's' for a suggestion.

I'm bringing some meat for the barbie.

J'apporte de la viande pour le barbecue.

Present continuous for a planned action.

The park has a free barbie for everyone.

Le parc a un barbecue gratuit pour tout le monde.

Third person singular 'has'.

Do you know how to use this barbie?

Sais-tu comment utiliser ce barbecue ?

Infinitive phrase 'how to use'.

We had a great barbie last night.

Nous avons fait un super barbecue hier soir.

Past simple of 'have'.

Don't touch the barbie, it's very hot!

Ne touche pas au barbecue, il est très chaud !

Imperative 'don't touch'.

Is the barbie ready yet?

Le barbecue est-il déjà prêt ?

Question with 'yet'.

They are having a barbie for his birthday.

Ils font un barbecue pour son anniversaire.

Present continuous for an event.

We're throwing a barbie to celebrate the end of exams.

On organise un barbecue pour fêter la fin des examens.

Idiomatic use of 'throwing' with 'barbie'.

Could you please fire up the barbie while I chop the salad?

Pourrais-tu allumer le barbecue pendant que je coupe la salade ?

Phrasal verb 'fire up'.

A backyard barbie is the best way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Un barbecue dans le jardin est la meilleure façon de passer un dimanche après-midi.

Gerund phrase as a complement.

I'll put the snags on the barbie as soon as the guests arrive.

Je mettrai les saucisses sur le barbecue dès que les invités arriveront.

Future with 'will' and time clause 'as soon as'.

We usually have a barbie on Australia Day.

Nous faisons habituellement un barbecue le jour de l'Australie.

Adverb of frequency 'usually'.

The barbie needs a good clean before we use it again.

Le barbecue a besoin d'un bon nettoyage avant qu'on ne l'utilise à nouveau.

Noun 'clean' used after 'needs'.

Everyone stood around the barbie, waiting for the food.

Tout le monde se tenait autour du barbecue, attendant la nourriture.

Past simple with a participle phrase.

Is there enough gas for the barbie?

Y a-t-il assez de gaz pour le barbecue ?

Quantifier 'enough'.

Hosting a barbie is a great way to meet your new neighbors.

Organiser un barbecue est un excellent moyen de rencontrer vos nouveaux voisins.

Gerund 'hosting' as the subject.

The smell of a barbie always reminds me of my childhood summers.

L'odeur d'un barbecue me rappelle toujours les étés de mon enfance.

Present simple expressing a permanent state.

If the weather holds up, we'll have the barbie down by the beach.

Si le temps se maintient, nous ferons le barbecue à la plage.

First conditional structure.

He's quite the expert at manning the barbie.

C'est un véritable expert pour s'occuper du barbecue.

Idiomatic 'quite the expert' and 'manning'.

We had to cancel the barbie due to the unexpected downpour.

Nous avons dû annuler le barbecue à cause de l'averse inattendue.

Prepositional phrase 'due to'.

The barbie was the centerpiece of the community festival.

Le barbecue était la pièce maîtresse du festival communautaire.

Noun as a subject complement.

Make sure you don't overcook the prawns on the barbie.

Assure-toi de ne pas trop cuire les crevettes au barbecue.

Negative imperative in a 'make sure' clause.

The tradition of the Sunday barbie is still going strong.

La tradition du barbecue du dimanche est toujours bien vivante.

Present continuous 'going strong'.

The informal nature of the barbie facilitates a unique kind of social bonding.

La nature informelle du barbecue facilite un type unique de lien social.

Formal verb 'facilitates' with informal noun.

Critics argue that the barbie is a symbol of a bygone era of Australian domesticity.

Les critiques soutiennent que le barbecue est le symbole d'une époque révolue de la vie domestique australienne.

Reporting verb 'argue' with a 'that' clause.

Despite its simplicity, the barbie requires a certain level of culinary intuition.

Malgré sa simplicité, le barbecue requiert un certain niveau d'intuition culinaire.

Concessive clause starting with 'Despite'.

The ubiquity of the barbie in Australian parks reflects a commitment to public leisure.

L'ubiquité du barbecue dans les parcs australiens reflète un engagement envers les loisirs publics.

Abstract noun 'ubiquity' as subject.

He spent the afternoon holding court by the barbie, regaling us with stories.

Il a passé l'après-midi à tenir salon près du barbecue, nous régalant de ses histoires.

Participial phrase 'regaling us'.

The transition from wood-fired to gas barbies marked a shift in suburban convenience.

La transition des barbecues au bois vers ceux au gaz a marqué un changement dans le confort des banlieues.

Noun phrase as subject.

Nothing beats the charred flavor of meat cooked over an open barbie.

Rien ne bat la saveur carbonisée de la viande cuite sur un barbecue ouvert.

Negative subject 'Nothing'.

The barbie serves as a democratic space where social hierarchies are momentarily suspended.

Le barbecue sert d'espace démocratique où les hiérarchies sociales sont momentanément suspendues.

Passive voice 'are suspended'.

The barbie is inextricably linked to the Australian psyche, embodying the myth of the 'fair go'.

Le barbecue est inextricablement lié à la psyché australienne, incarnant le mythe du 'fair go'.

Adverb 'inextricably' modifying a participle.

To dismiss the barbie as a mere cooking method is to overlook its profound sociological implications.

Rejeter le barbecue comme une simple méthode de cuisson, c'est négliger ses profondes implications sociologiques.

Infinitive phrase as subject and complement.

The semiotics of the backyard barbie suggest a deliberate rejection of European formality.

La sémiotique du barbecue de jardin suggère un rejet délibéré du formalisme européen.

Subject-verb agreement with 'semiotics'.

In the tapestry of Australian cultural life, the barbie is a thread that binds disparate communities.

Dans la mosaïque de la vie culturelle australienne, le barbecue est un fil qui lie des communautés disparates.

Metaphorical language.

The ritualistic 'firing up of the barbie' serves as a secular liturgy for the Australian weekend.

Le rituel de 'l'allumage du barbecue' sert de liturgie laïque pour le week-end australien.

Appositive phrase 'firing up of the barbie'.

Environmental concerns have prompted a re-evaluation of the traditional charcoal barbie.

Les préoccupations environnementales ont suscité une réévaluation du barbecue au charbon traditionnel.

Present perfect 'have prompted'.

The barbie acts as a catalyst for the oral tradition of 'yarn-spinning' in rural Australia.

Le barbecue agit comme un catalyseur pour la tradition orale du 'racontage d'histoires' dans l'Australie rurale.

Noun as a catalyst.

The enduring popularity of the barbie defies the encroachment of global fast-food culture.

La popularité durable du barbecue défie l'empiètement de la culture mondiale de la restauration rapide.

Transitive verb 'defies'.

常见搭配

backyard barbie

fire up the barbie

throw a barbie

on the barbie

beach barbie

barbie tongs

weekend barbie

public barbie

manning the barbie

barbie weather

常用短语

Slip an extra snag on the barbie

Barbie at mine

The barbie's hot

Clean the barbie

Around the barbie

Barbie season

Gas for the barbie

Portable barbie

Barbie tools

Community barbie

容易混淆的词

barbie vs Barbie (doll)

The most common confusion. The doll is a proper noun (capital B), the grill is a common noun (lowercase b).

barbie vs Braai

The South African version. Similar concept, different word and specific cultural rules.

barbie vs Grill

In Australia, 'the grill' often refers to the indoor oven part, while 'barbie' is outdoor.

习语与表达

"Shrimp on the barbie"

A famous phrase from an 80s tourism ad. Australians actually say 'prawns', so this is mostly used ironically now.

He's such a tourist, he actually said 'shrimp on the barbie'!

informal/ironic

"Throw another snag on the barbie"

A more authentic version of the 'shrimp' phrase, meaning to cook more food for someone.

Don't worry, we'll throw another snag on the barbie for you.

informal

"Manning the barbie"

Taking responsibility for the cooking during the event. Usually a social role.

Uncle Dave is manning the barbie, so the meat will be perfectly cooked.

informal

"Barbie king/queen"

A humorous title for someone who considers themselves an expert at grilling.

He even has an apron that says 'Barbie King'.

informal/humorous

"Not the only snag on the barbie"

Used to imply that there are other things to consider or other people involved. Rare but colorful.

He's not the only snag on the barbie; we have to think about the rest of the team too.

slang

"Fire up the barbie"

To start a project or event with enthusiasm, not just a literal grill.

Let's fire up the barbie and get this meeting started!

informal/metaphorical

"Coldie by the barbie"

Having a cold beer or drink while standing next to the grill. The peak of Australian relaxation.

There's nothing better than a coldie by the barbie on a Friday night.

informal

"Barbie weather"

Perfect conditions for an outdoor gathering—sunny, warm, and not too windy.

We've had a run of great barbie weather lately.

informal

"Sausage sizzle barbie"

A very basic barbecue focused on fundraising or simple community feeding.

The local fire brigade is having a sausage sizzle barbie today.

informal

"Clean as a new barbie"

Something that is exceptionally clean or brand new. A local variation of 'clean as a whistle'.

His new car is as clean as a new barbie.

informal/rare

容易混淆

barbie vs Barbie

Identical spelling and pronunciation.

One is a fashion doll (proper noun), the other is a barbecue (common noun).

She plays with her Barbie while her dad cooks on the barbie.

barbie vs Barby

Phonetic spelling.

Barby is a rare name or misspelling; barbie is the standard spelling for the grill.

He spelled it 'barby' on the sign, but it should be 'barbie'.

barbie vs BBQ

Same meaning.

BBQ is an abbreviation used globally; barbie is specifically Australian slang.

The sign says BBQ, but we call it a barbie.

barbie vs Grill

Both involve cooking meat.

A grill is the part of the stove; a barbie is the whole outdoor unit and event.

I used the grill for toast, but the barbie for steaks.

barbie vs Cookout

Both are outdoor meals.

Cookout is American; barbie is Australian. A cookout might not use a grill (could be a fire).

In New York we had a cookout, but in Sydney we had a barbie.

句型

I have a [noun].

I have a barbie.

Let's have a [noun].

Let's have a barbie.

We are [verb-ing] a [noun].

We are throwing a barbie.

It is [adjective] [noun] weather.

It is perfect barbie weather.

The [noun] serves as a [noun phrase].

The barbie serves as a social hub.

The [noun] is inextricably linked to [concept].

The barbie is inextricably linked to the national identity.

Put the [food] on the [noun].

Put the snags on the barbie.

Who is [verb-ing] the [noun]?

Who is manning the barbie?

词族

名词

动词

形容词

如何使用

frequency

Extremely high in Australia/NZ; low elsewhere.

常见错误

Using 'shrimp' instead of 'prawns'. → Throw some prawns on the barbie.
Australians call them prawns. 'Shrimp' is an American term used in a famous but inaccurate ad.
Using 'barbie' as a verb. → Let's have a barbie.
'Barbie' is a noun. Using it as a verb ('Let's barbie tonight') sounds unnatural.
Capitalizing 'barbie' when referring to food. → We're having a barbie.
Capital 'Barbie' is the doll. Lowercase 'barbie' is the grill/event.
Using 'barbie' in a formal business meeting. → We are hosting a corporate barbecue.
'Barbie' is too informal for professional settings. Stick to 'barbecue'.
Pronouncing the 'r' too heavily. → Say 'bah-bee'.
Australian English is non-rhotic. A heavy 'r' sounds American or like you're talking about the doll.

小贴士

The 'BYO' Rule

When invited to a barbie, always assume it's 'Bring Your Own' drinks unless told otherwise. It's a standard part of the casual culture.

Mind the 'R'

In Australia, the 'r' in barbie is silent. Practice saying 'bah-bee' to sound more like a local.

The Social Hub

The barbie is the center of the party. If you want to meet people, stand near the grill—that's where the best conversations happen.

Public Barbie Etiquette

If you use a public barbie in a park, always clean it with a scraper and water when you're finished. It's a major social rule.

Know Your Snags

Pair 'barbie' with 'snags' (sausages) to sound authentic. It's the most common food found on any Australian grill.

Seasonal Usage

You'll hear the word 'barbie' ten times more often in summer than in winter. It's a seasonal word for a seasonal lifestyle.

Noun Only

Remember to use 'barbie' as a noun. If you need a verb, use 'barbecue' or 'cook'. 'Let's barbie' sounds wrong to native ears.

Travel Tip

If you're in the US, use 'BBQ'. If you're in South Africa, use 'Braai'. Only use 'barbie' in Australia and New Zealand.

The 'Barbie King' Apron

If you see someone wearing a 'Barbie King' apron, they are likely the host and take great pride in their grilling skills!

Spelling Matters

Always spell it 'barbie' with an 'ie'. Spelling it 'barby' or 'barbe' is considered a mistake in Australian English.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Barbie' doll holding a 'Barbecue' grill. Barbie + Barbecue = Barbie!

视觉联想

Imagine a sunny Australian backyard with a sizzling grill and a cold drink. The 'B' in Barbie stands for Backyard and Barbecue.

Word Web

Australia Grill Sausage Summer Friends Outdoor Casual Prawns

挑战

Try to use 'barbie' in three different sentences today: one about the weather, one about an invitation, and one about cleaning.

词源

The word 'barbie' is an Australian diminutive of 'barbecue'. The root word 'barbecue' comes from the Spanish 'barbacoa', which was derived from a Taino word for a wooden framework used for cooking meat over a fire.

原始含义： A wooden structure for roasting meat.

Indo-European (via Spanish and Taino).

文化背景

Be aware that 'Barbie' is a trademarked name for the doll. In writing, use lowercase for the grill to avoid confusion.

While 'barbie' is common in Australia and New Zealand, it is almost never used in the UK or US except to refer to the doll.

Paul Hogan's 'Shrimp on the barbie' tourism ad (1984). The 'Bunnings Sausage Sizzle'—a cultural phenomenon. The movie 'The Castle', which features classic Australian backyard life.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Social Gatherings

Throwing a barbie
Come over for a barbie
Weekend barbie
Barbie at mine

Cooking/Food

On the barbie
Fire up the barbie
Barbie tongs
Clean the barbie

Public Parks

Public barbie
Electric barbie
Claim the barbie
Park barbie

Weather

Barbie weather
Perfect for a barbie
Summer barbie
Sunny day barbie

Fundraising

Sausage sizzle barbie
Charity barbie
School barbie
Club barbie

对话开场白

"Are you guys having a barbie for Australia Day this year?"

"Do you prefer a gas barbie or the traditional charcoal ones?"

"What's your go-to food to cook when you're manning the barbie?"

"Have you ever used the public barbies down at the beach?"

"Is it barbie weather today, or do you think it might rain?"

日记主题

Describe your ideal afternoon spent at a backyard barbie with friends.

Compare the Australian 'barbie' culture with outdoor dining traditions in your own country.

Write about a time a barbie was ruined by bad weather or a cooking disaster.

Why do you think the 'barbie' is such an important symbol of Australian identity?

If you were hosting a barbie, what three things would be most important to you?

常见问题

10 个问题

Yes, it is primarily used in Australia and New Zealand. While people in other countries might understand it due to cultural exports, they don't use it in their daily lives. In the US or UK, 'barbecue' or 'BBQ' are the standard terms. Using 'barbie' outside of an Australian context might lead people to think you are talking about the doll.

It is very uncommon to use 'barbie' as a verb. You wouldn't say 'I'm barbieing the meat.' Instead, you should use 'barbecue' as the verb or say 'cooking on the barbie.' For example, 'I'm going to barbecue some chicken' or 'I'm cooking some chicken on the barbie.' Stick to using it as a noun to sound natural.

A 'barbie' is a general term for any barbecue event or the grill itself. It can involve many types of food. A 'sausage sizzle' is a specific, very simple type of barbie where only sausages are served on white bread. Sausage sizzles are common for fundraising at schools or stores like Bunnings. All sausage sizzles are barbies, but not all barbies are sausage sizzles.

No, this is a common myth! Australians almost always use the word 'prawns' instead of 'shrimp.' The famous phrase was created for an American advertising campaign because the advertisers thought Americans wouldn't know what a 'prawn' was. If you say 'shrimp on the barbie' in Australia, people will know you are a tourist or making a joke.

No, 'barbie' is very informal. It is a 'hypocorism,' which is a pet name or a shortened version of a word. You should use it with friends, family, and in casual social settings. In a formal business email or a professional invitation, it is better to use the full word 'barbecue' to maintain a professional tone.

The plural is 'barbies.' For example, 'We went to three different barbies over the Christmas break.' It follows the standard rule of adding an 's' to the end of the word. Make sure not to use an apostrophe (barbie's) unless you are talking about something belonging to the barbie.

This phrase refers to the person who is taking charge of the cooking. Usually, one or two people will stand by the grill to turn the meat and make sure nothing burns. 'Manning the barbie' is often a social role where the cook chats with guests while working. It doesn't have to be a man; anyone can man the barbie!

Yes, by definition, a barbie is an outdoor activity. If you cook meat on a grill inside the house, it is usually just called 'grilling' or 'using the grill.' The word 'barbie' carries the connotation of being in a backyard, a park, or at the beach. The outdoor setting is a crucial part of the 'barbie' experience.

If you are invited to a barbie in Australia, it is polite to ask 'What can I bring?' Often, the host will suggest you bring your own drinks (BYO) or perhaps a salad or dessert. Sometimes people even bring their own meat to put on the grill. This communal approach is very common and helps keep the event casual and easy for the host.

This is a very common feature of Australian English. Adding '-ie' or '-o' to shortened words makes the language feel more friendly, casual, and less formal. It reflects the Australian cultural value of 'mateship' and a relaxed attitude toward life. Other examples include 'brekkie' (breakfast), 'sunnies' (sunglasses), and 'postie' (postman).