Footy: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in informal or colloquial conversations in Australia and New Zealand to refer to either Australian Rules Football or rugby. It’s a term of affection and familiarity for these sports.

• Let's play some footy this weekend.
• Did you watch the footy match last night?

Often referred to as 'soccer' in countries like the USA and Canada; globally recognized as the sport where the game is played primarily with the feet. Can be confusing in countries like Australia where 'football' can refer to other local sports like rugby or Australian Rules Football.

• Football is the most popular sport in the world.
• He kicked the winning goal in the football match.

Refers specifically to the sport of rugby, played in many countries like New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and the UK. Known for its physicality and specific rules.

• Rugby is a very intense and physical sport.
• She dreams of playing rugby for the national team.

Used in more formal contexts or when specifying the exact sport, especially in international settings where the term 'footy' might be confusing.

• Australian Rules Football is a fast-paced and exciting sport.
• He plays Australian Rules Football professionally.

Commonly used in Australia and New Zealand to refer to Australian Rules Football or Rugby. It is an informal term and often used in casual conversations.

• Do you want to watch some footy this weekend?
• He plays footy every Saturday with his mates.

Primarily used in the United States, Canada, and Australia to refer to what the rest of the world knows as 'football'. This term can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• Soccer practice is every Tuesday and Thursday.
• My favorite soccer team is Manchester United.

Used in most parts of the world to refer to what Americans call 'soccer'. In the United States and Canada, it generally refers to American or Canadian football. It's used in both formal and informal settings.

• The football match starts at 3 PM.
• He's a huge fan of American football.

An affectionate term used to describe soccer, emphasizing its aesthetic appeal and global popularity. It's used in both formal and informal settings but often in a poetic or passionate context.

• Many people consider soccer to be the beautiful game.
• Pelé was one of the best players in the history of the beautiful game.