reffo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowInformal, Slang, Offensive
Quick answer
What does “reffo” mean?
A derogatory slang term for a refugee, especially one who arrived in Australia after World War II.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A derogatory slang term for a refugee, especially one who arrived in Australia after World War II.
A pejorative term historically used in Australian English to refer to European refugees who migrated to Australia in the mid-20th century, often implying unwelcome foreignness or otherness. Its use has declined significantly and is now considered offensive.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is not standard in British or American English. It is specific to Australian English.
Connotations
In its historical Australian context, it was a slur connoting foreignness, displacement, and low social status. In modern contexts, its use is widely condemned.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary use, largely confined to historical discussions or depictions of mid-20th century Australia.
Grammar
How to Use “reffo” in a Sentence
[Subject] called him a reffo.The [adjective] reffo [verb]...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reffo” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He faced reffo prejudice in the 1950s.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only used in historical or sociolinguistic analysis of Australian slang and attitudes.
Everyday
Considered highly offensive and avoided in polite conversation.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reffo”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reffo”
- Using it as a neutral term for a refugee.
- Assuming it is current or acceptable slang outside of historical context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered a highly offensive slur and should be avoided entirely.
It is a derogatory slang term for a refugee, specifically associated with mid-20th century Australia.
No, it is primarily used as a noun and sometimes as an adjective. It does not have standard verbal uses.
Understanding historically offensive terms is important for comprehending historical texts, social attitudes, and avoiding causing offence inadvertently.
A derogatory slang term for a refugee, especially one who arrived in Australia after World War II.
Reffo is usually informal, slang, offensive in register.
Reffo: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛfəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛfoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms feature this term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
REFFO sounds like 'ref' (referee) + 'oh' – imagine a referee being sent off for making an offensive call; this word is offensive and sends people away.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PERSON IS AN UNWANTED OBJECT (dehumanizing).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the term 'reffo' historically specific?