ranga

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ranga" is not standard in written English and may be considered informal or slang.
It is typically used in Australian slang to refer to a person with red hair, often in a playful or teasing manner. Example: "At the party, I noticed a few rangas, and we all joked about their vibrant hair colors."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

TV's influence can replace Australianism with Australianism though: "ranga" has replaced the previous, ironic term for a redhead: blue/bluey.

The Guardian

His alter ego Jonah popularised the term "ranga", meaning ginger (from orangutan), and it was used to describe everyone from Julia Gillard to yours truly.

The Guardian

It's rare for a ranga to wear his whiskers so proudly, rarer still for him to shape them like he's running a scrimshaw-themed bar/microbrewery on Smith St.

The Guardian - Sport

i haven't heard the word ranga for ages.

The Guardian - Music

Ranga is named after the fast-flowing river alongside it, which teems with wild salmon in season.

Independent

But what lies behind the simple façade makes this independent design hotel well worth the almost 60-mile drive from Reykjavik – indeed, Ranga is the only four-star accommodation you'll find outside Iceland's capital.

Independent

The price includes flights to Reykjavik from Heathrow, Manchester or Glasgow; car hire and B&B accommodation at the Hotel Ranga, set in a remote location and under wide skies about a two-hour drive from Iceland's capital.

Independent

Originally founded in the southern city of Chennai as a weekly newspaper in 1878 by four law students, The Hindu was bought 20 years later by S Kasturi Ranga Iyengar, who had been its legal advisor.

Independent

At first sight, Ranga looks nothing like a luxury destination.

Independent

The address Hotel Ranga, 851 Hella, Iceland (00 354 487 5700; hotelranga.is).

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Y. Ranga Reddy, president of a water distribution committee on a nearby canal, is alarmed about pump-smashing on a grander scale.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and context when using the term "ranga", as it may be perceived as offensive by some. If you are unsure, opt for more neutral terms like "redhead" or "ginger person".

Common error

Avoid using "ranga" in formal writing or professional settings. It's best suited for casual conversations among people who understand the slang.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ranga" is as a noun, specifically a slang term used in Australian English. Ludwig indicates that it refers to a person with red or orange hair. It can also be used as an adjective, as in "ranga hair".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ranga" is an Australian slang term used to describe a person with red or orange hair. While used in some contexts, primarily informal settings and news media, it should be used with caution as it can be considered offensive. Ludwig shows that the term is more frequently found in informal contexts and less in formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "redhead" or "ginger person" are safer choices in more formal situations. Given the potential for misinterpretation, it's vital to be mindful of your audience and the context when employing this term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ginger person

Replaces "ranga" with a more common and generally accepted term for someone with red hair.

redhead

A standard and widely understood term for a person with red hair.

person with auburn hair

Uses a more descriptive and less colloquial term for red hair.

carrot top

Offers a playful, though potentially offensive, alternative nickname based on hair color.

ginger-haired individual

A more formal and descriptive way to refer to someone with ginger hair.

strawberry blonde

Describes a specific shade of reddish-blond hair.

flaming locks

Employs a more figurative and vivid description of red hair.

someone with fiery hair

Focuses on the vibrant and striking quality of red hair.

orange-haired person

Directly describes the hair color, though it may sound less natural.

titian-haired

Refers to a reddish-brown or brownish-orange hair color, often considered artistic or refined.

FAQs

What does "ranga" mean?

"Ranga" is an Australian slang term for a person with red hair, derived from "orangutan".

Is it okay to use the word "ranga"?

The word "ranga" can be offensive to some people, so consider using alternatives like "redhead" or "ginger person" instead.

Where does the term "ranga" come from?

The term "ranga" originates in Australia and is believed to be derived from the word "orangutan", due to the shared orange hue of the hair.

What are some less offensive ways to describe someone with red hair?

Instead of using potentially offensive slang like "ranga", you can use neutral terms such as "redhead", "ginger", or "person with red hair".