What does “Squiz” mean?
The phrase "Squiz" means 'To quickly look at something.' When someone says they are going to "Squiz" something, they are expressing the intention to take a brief glance or examine something quickly.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
As in: "Take a squiz at this!"
As in: "Take a squiz at this!"
Example
I just need to squiz at my notes before the meeting.
I just need to squiz at my notes before the meeting.
Example
She squizzed at the menu before deciding what to order.
She squizzed at the menu before deciding what to order.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Showing something to someone
Hey, take a squiz at this new car I just bought!
Hey, take a squiz at this new car I just bought!
I found this interesting article, have a squiz when you have a moment.
I found this interesting article, have a squiz when you have a moment.
- 2Checking or reviewing something briefly
Before the presentation, I just need to squiz at my notes to refresh my memory.
Before the presentation, I just need to squiz at my notes to refresh my memory.
She quickly squizzed at the menu before deciding what to order.
She quickly squizzed at the menu before deciding what to order.
- 3Taking a quick look at something of interest
I saw a beautiful sunset and couldn't help but take a squiz.
I saw a beautiful sunset and couldn't help but take a squiz.
I walked past a shop and squizzed at the display in the window.
I walked past a shop and squizzed at the display in the window.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "squiz" originated in New Zealand and is commonly used in Australian and New Zealand English. It is believed to have derived from the word 'squizzy,' which means to take a quick glance or look.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "squiz" is often used in a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey the act of taking a quick look. For example, if someone asks you to look at something, you can simply respond with "Squiz!" to indicate that you will take a quick look.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "squiz" is not offensive in itself. It is a slang term used to describe taking a quick look at something.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "squiz" is commonly used in New Zealand and Australia, so it is more likely to be understood and used by people from these regions. However, it can also be understood by English speakers from other regions who are familiar with slang terms.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "squiz" is specific to New Zealand and Australian English. It is not commonly used in other English-speaking regions.
