canadian sayings
| Saying | Meaning |
|---|---|
| “Eh” | Seeking agreement or confirmation |
| “Double-Double” | Coffee with two sugars and creams |
| “Toque” | Knitted winter hat or beanie |
| “Poutine” | Canadian dish of french fries, cheese, and gravy |
| “Loonie” | One-dollar coin featuring a loon |
| “Toonie” | Two-dollar coin with a play on “two” and “loonie” |
| “Hoser” | Informal term for a clumsy or foolish person |
| “Canuck” | Informal term for a Canadian |
| “True North, Strong and Free” | Part of the Canadian national |
Canadian Sayings Unveiled:
Introduction
Canada is a country with a unique culture and language. Canadian sayings are an important part of this culture, and understanding them can help you better understand the people and the country. Canadian sayings are often humorous, and they can be used to express a variety of emotions. In this article, we will explore some of the most common Canadian sayings and their meanings. We will also provide some examples of how they can be used in everyday conversations. By understanding the distinctive vocabulary of Canada, you can better appreciate the culture and the people of this great nation.
1. Eh?
This is one of the most common Canadian sayings. It is used as a question tag, similar to the English “huh?” or “right?” It is often used to confirm that the speaker has been understood, or to ask for confirmation or agreement. For example, “I’m going to the store, eh?”
2. Double Double
This phrase is used to order a coffee with two creams and two sugars. It is a popular order at Canadian coffee shops, and it is often used as a way to show Canadian pride. For example, “I’ll have a double double, please.”
3. Toque
This is a Canadian word for a knitted winter hat. It is often used to refer to any type of winter hat, regardless of the material it is made from. For example, “I need to buy a new toque for the winter.”
4. Two-Four
This phrase is used to refer to a case of 24 beers. It is often used to refer to a large quantity of beer, and it is a popular phrase among Canadians. For example, “Let’s get a two-four for the party.”
5. Loonie
This is a Canadian term for a one-dollar coin. It is often used to refer to any type of one-dollar coin, regardless of the country it is from. For example, “I need to get some loonies for the vending machine.”
6. Chesterfield
This is a Canadian term for a couch or sofa. It is often used to refer to any type of couch or sofa, regardless of the material it is made from. For example, “I need to buy a new chesterfield for the living room.”
7. Serviette
This is a Canadian term for a napkin. It is often used to refer to any type of napkin, regardless of the material it is made from. For example, “Can I get a serviette, please?”
8. Skookum
This is a Canadian term for something that is strong or powerful. It is often used to describe something that is impressive or admirable. For example, “That was a skookum performance.”
9. Give’er
This phrase is used to encourage someone to do something with enthusiasm or vigor. It is often used to show support or encouragement. For example, “Come on, give’er!”
10. Pardon
This is a Canadian term for “excuse me” or “sorry”. It is often used to apologize for something or to ask someone to repeat themselves. For example, “Pardon, what did you say?”
11. Keener
This is a Canadian term for someone who is eager or enthusiastic. It is often used to describe someone who is eager to learn or to do something. For example, “She’s a real keener when it comes to learning.”
12. Take Off
This phrase is used to describe leaving or departing. It is often used to describe taking a vacation or a break from work. For example, “I’m taking off for the weekend.”
What are some typical Canadian expressions and phrases?
Canadian expressions include “eh,” “double-double,” “toque,” “loonie,” and “toboggan.”
What does “eh” mean in Canadian English?
“Eh” is an informal expression used to seek agreement or confirmation, similar to “right?” or “you know?”
What is a “double-double” in Canada?
A “double-double” refers to a coffee with two sugars and two creams, a common order at Tim Hortons, a popular Canadian coffee chain.
What is a “toque” in Canadian English?
A “toque” is a knitted hat, often worn in Canada during the cold winter months.
What is a “loonie” in Canadian currency?
A “loonie” is a colloquial term for the Canadian one-dollar coin, featuring an image of a common loon.
What is a “toboggan” in Canada?
A “toboggan” in Canada is a sled used for sliding down snow-covered hills, not to be confused with the American usage of “toboggan” for a winter hat.
Are Canadian expressions influenced by other languages?
Yes, Canadian expressions can be influenced by Indigenous languages, French, and British English due to Canada’s diverse linguistic heritage.
What are some expressions unique to Quebec?
In Quebec, you’ll hear French expressions like “c’est plate” (it’s boring) and “chez nous” (our place) more frequently.
Do Canadians use British or American English expressions?
Canadian English borrows elements from both British and American English, creating a unique blend of expressions.
Is “sorry” a common Canadian expression?
Yes, Canadians are often known for their politeness and frequent use of “sorry” as a polite gesture, even when it may not be necessary.
What is a “mickey” in Canadian slang?
A “mickey” is a small bottle of liquor, typically around 375ml in size.
Are there regional variations in Canadian expressions?
Yes, Canada’s vast size and diverse regions result in regional variations in expressions and accents.
Do Canadians say “pop” or “soda”?
The choice between “pop” and “soda” varies by region in Canada, with “pop” being more common in some areas and “soda” in others.
What are some hockey-related expressions in Canada?
Hockey is a significant part of Canadian culture, and expressions like “top shelf,” “hat trick,” and “five-hole” are commonly used in hockey conversations.
What is “Poutine” in Canadian cuisine?
Poutine is a popular Canadian dish consisting of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
Do Canadians use the metric or imperial system for measurements?
Canada primarily uses the metric system for measurements, although some imperial units are still in use.
Are there specific expressions related to winter in Canada?
Yes, Canadian winters have given rise to expressions like “snowbird” (a person who escapes the winter by traveling south) and “deep freeze” (extremely cold weather).
What are “Canuck” and “Hoser” expressions in Canada?
“Canuck” is a colloquial term for a Canadian, and “hoser” is a humorous insult often used in a friendly manner.
Are there Canadian expressions related to wildlife?
Canada’s diverse wildlife has led to expressions like “the call of the wild” and “squirrelly” (meaning jittery or nervous).
How does Canadian English differ from American English?
Canadian English features some distinct vocabulary and spellings, such as “colour” instead of “color” and “centre” instead of “center,” but it also shares many similarities with American English.
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