chorrie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowInformal, Slang, Regional
Quick answer
What does “chorrie” mean?
Informal South African English term for an old, dilapidated, or unreliable car.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Informal South African English term for an old, dilapidated, or unreliable car.
More broadly, any worn-out or shabby piece of machinery or equipment; can carry a sense of affection or nostalgia despite its poor condition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
This word is not part of mainstream British or American English vocabulary. It is a loanword from Afrikaans (likely from 'tjorrie') used in South African English.
Connotations
In its native context (SAE), it connotes a 'banger' or 'rust bucket' but often with a sense of character or fondness.
Frequency
Frequency is effectively zero in both British and American corpora. Usage is confined to South Africa and expatriate/diaspora communities.
Grammar
How to Use “chorrie” in a Sentence
to drive [a chorrie]to have/get [a chorrie]That [chorrie] won't start.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chorrie” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He's got a real chorrie car.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in informal conversation in South Africa to refer humorously or affectionately to an old car.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chorrie”
- Using it outside a South African context.
- Assuming it is a standard English word.
- Spelling it as 'chorry' or 'chorie'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an informal slang term specific to South African English.
Using it in the UK or USA will likely cause confusion, as the word is not part of the local lexicon.
It is derived from Afrikaans, likely from 'tjorrie', meaning a cart or carriage.
It implies the car is old and worn, but it can be used with affection, not just criticism.
Informal South African English term for an old, dilapidated, or unreliable car.
Chorrie is usually informal, slang, regional in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[It's] on its last legs, like a real chorrie.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CHORus of groans and rattles coming from your old car – that's your CHORrie.
Conceptual Metaphor
AN OBJECT OF AFFECTION IS A DILAPIDATED VEHICLE (in South African informal culture).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the word 'chorrie' primarily used?