squiz: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareInformal, colloquial, chiefly Australian/New Zealand English
Quick answer
What does “squiz” mean?
A brief, quick, or inquisitive look.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A brief, quick, or inquisitive look; a glance.
In Australian and New Zealand informal usage, can also mean to inspect or examine something quickly. Used as both a noun and a verb.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is virtually absent from mainstream American English. In British English, it is known but very rare and informal. Its primary contemporary usage is in Australian and New Zealand English.
Connotations
In regions where used, it conveys a casual, sometimes cheeky or nosy act of looking.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in corpora for both BrE and AmE. Its use marks informal, often regional speech.
Grammar
How to Use “squiz” in a Sentence
Have/take a squiz at [noun phrase]Squiz (verb) at [noun phrase]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “squiz” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- I'll just squiz at the map before we set off.
- He squizzed through the keyhole.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used.
Everyday
Used in very informal Australian/NZ contexts among friends. e.g., 'Let me have a squiz at your phone.'
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “squiz”
- Spelling as 'squizz'.
- Using in formal writing.
- Assuming it is common in all English varieties.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a legitimate, though informal and regionally restricted word, primarily used in Australian and New Zealand English.
Yes, though less common than the noun form. e.g., 'Squiz this document for any obvious errors.'
Etymologically, it is considered a blend of 'squint' and 'quiz', so it is partially related via the sense of 'quiz' meaning to question or look at inquisitively.
Only for recognition purposes, particularly if engaging with Australian/NZ media or speakers. It is not a priority for active use for most learners.
A brief, quick, or inquisitive look.
Squiz is usually informal, colloquial, chiefly australian/new zealand english in register.
Squiz: in British English it is pronounced /skwɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /skwɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine SQUIRREL with a QUIZ: a squirrel quickly takes a 'squiz' at the quiz paper.
Conceptual Metaphor
SEEING IS TOUCHING LIGHTLY (a quick, non-committal contact with the eyes).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'squiz' most commonly used?