Whether you’re Canadian or not, it is helpful to learn about other cultures that might be different from yours. You see, Canadian is a melting pot of all different cultures across the globe, which makes the whole country a really interesting place to live in. Like any other western country, Canadians have been historically and regionally using certain terms that you would only hear in Canada.
Home of the Niagara Falls…
Creator of maple syrup and poutine…
Country of gorgeous lakes, insanely cold weather, and exciting ice hockey matches…
Of course, you know which country we are talking about.
CANADA is a peaceful nation blessed with a rich history, well-mannered Canucks (Canadian people), highly urbanized cities, and breathtaking natural beauty. If you are moving to Canada, you can definitely look forward to wonderful rich ex-pat life.
You’ve probably heard that Canadians are very polite people. It’s true! And they love to say sorry and pardon even if they’re not at fault! With a Canadian, you can have a polite conversation – or even a friendly one – with the word eh.
Canadians don’t mind it in the least! This classic term used in everyday Canadian conversations can indicate that you don’t understand something or can’t believe something is true.
You can even use it if you want the other person to respond to something you said. It’s similar to ‘huh’, ‘right?’ and ‘what?’ commonly found in American and British English.
Here are some of the most common words Canadians say:
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Canadian tuxedo: informal outfit consisting of a blue denim jacket and blue jeans
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Pop: carbonated soft drink/soda
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Washroom: bathroom, restroom, toilet
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Queue: Lineup
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Tap: faucet
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Canuck: Canadian person
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Kerfuffle: commotion, fuss or disagreement
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keener: over-achiever, eager to learn
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beauty: exceptionally great person
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Loonie: 1-dollar coin
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Toonie: 2-dollar coin
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Parkade: parking garage
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Gas bar: petrol station
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Chinook: the warm wind that comes over the mountain during winter to melt the snow and raise the temperature
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Hydro bill: electricity bill
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Toque (or tuque): knitted hat
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Snowbirds: Canadians who head south to sandy beaches and tropical waters to escape winter
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Toboggan: Snow sled
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Garburator: Garbage disposal, usually installed under a kitchen sink
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Mountie: a member of the highly-respected Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
Are any of these terms familiar to you? Which ones? If they’re not, which ones did you find interesting?