Summary of Unique Canadian Slang
Canada has a very strong identity with two official languages in the country, French and English, alongside more than 70 Indigenous languages. However, it’s really the Canadian slang that distinguishes us globally. Each province boasts its own unique Canadian lingo, yet we all understand each other. Here are some of the most notable Canadian slang words and phrases to know before visiting our home and native land.
Canadian Slang – How To Speak Canadian
Our intriguing Canadian sayings and phrases may surprise you. While some may think Canadians sound similar to our American neighbors, the truth is, we have our own distinct flavor of English. Moreover, we can easily pick out a Canadian accent. Indeed, we truly sound different from Americans.
Famous Canadian Sayings
People often feel puzzled when we say, “A Coffee Crisp costs about a Loonie, pretty good deal, eh?” or, “I’d like a dozen Timbits (the donut holes) with a large double-double, please.” What do these phrases mean? We’re here to clarify this and share staple Canadian slang that we use daily.
1. Canuck
The term “Canuck” is one of my favorites, referring to Canadians. We have the Vancouver Canucks, one of Canada’s most beloved hockey teams. In the 1980s, our downhill skiers who excelled in the World Cup circuit were called the Crazy Canucks. If you haven’t figured it out yet, Canuck is simply another term for a Canadian. I proudly identify as a Canuck!
2. Eh
This is perhaps our most popular Canadian saying—a term we often receive flak about from the rest of the world. People love to mock us when we use the term “Eh.” They often misuse it in goofy phrases. Thus, here’s a quick lesson on how a proper Canuck employs the word “eh.” It’s straightforward and anyone can do it.
Make a statement like, “It is a very nice day out today.” By adding “eh” to the end of that statement, you can transform it into a friendly question. For instance, “It is a very nice day out today, eh?” The expected reply would be, “Yes it is.” See? It’s easy! So, before visiting, you can practice your “eh” usage to fit right in.
3. Loonie and Toonie
Undoubtedly, the silliest word for Canadian currency is the one-dollar coin, called the “Loonie.” When this coin debuted in the early 1990s, we were at a loss for what to call it. But the coin features a picture of a Loon, hence the name “Loonie.” When the two-dollar coin emerged, it displayed a Polar Bear. Rather than calling it a Bearie or Polie, we affectionately termed it “Toonie” because it rhymes with Loonie. Canadians love catchy rhymes!
4. Tuque
I spent much of my life unaware that “tuque,” or the English version “toque,” was distinctly Canadian. A tuque is a warm knitted hat essential for winter. Iconic Canadian figures like Bob and Doug Mackenzie embraced the tuque in their routines. Now you know—a tuque keeps your head warm, similar to what Americans might call a beanie.
5. Hoser
Remember Bob and Doug Mackenzie? They popularized the term “Hoser,” which is a light-hearted insult used to describe someone as an idiot or loser. Originating from hockey culture, the term implies that those who lost a game would have to “hose down” the rink. It emphasizes our humorous side!
6. Double Double at Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons has become synonymous with Canadian coffee culture. Renowned by various affectionate names, such as Timmy’s or Timmies, it offers coffee that many of us can’t resist. A crucial phrase to remember is, “I’m going to Timmies to grab a box of Timbits and a large Double Double.” This signifies ordering a large coffee with two creams and two sugars—classically Canadian!
7. Rink Rat
Tim Hortons was founded by a legendary hockey player. With hockey being a national passion, “rink rat” uniquely describes players who spend hours on the ice, whether handling a puck or practicing figure skating. I can personally attest to living at my local rink during my youth—those were cherished moments!
8. Two-Four
One of my favorites, “Two-Four,” denotes a 24-pack of beer. “I’m going to get a 2-4 of Canadian at the Beer Store, do you want anything?” In Canada, beer is often bought at the Beer Store, with a “two-four” being shorthand for a case of 24 beers.
9. Molson Muscle
“Molson Muscle” aptly describes a beer belly—a funny term often reserved for older generations. Younger Canadians may gravitate toward craft beer, while generations before them grew fond of Molson brews.
10. Hydro
It’s fascinating that Canadians are among the few who call electricity “Hydro.” We refer to our electric bills as hydro bills. When we discuss utilities, we tend to say, “I’m paying my hydro bill,” showcasing our unique vernacular.
So, as you can see, these terms and phrases form a crucial part of Canadian identity. Make sure to embrace our unique slang during your visit and enjoy all things Canadian!
Fun Canadian Words
Other interesting Canadian expressions include:
- Knapsack: Refers to a backpack, especially for school kids.
- Washroom: The common term for a bathroom in Canada.
- Chocolate Bar: The Canadian name for candy bars.
- Chinook: A warm winter wind that melts snow.
Unique Canadian Expressions
As you venture through Canada, you’ll likely encounter a variety of unique expressions such as:
- Bunny Hug: A hooded sweatshirt, popular in Saskatchewan.
- Stag and Stagette: Terms for bachelor and bachelorette parties, respectively.
- Kraft Dinner: What we Canadians call macaroni and cheese.
- Pop: Soft drinks are typically referred to as pop.
These phrases exemplify the colorful and diverse tapestry that is Canadian slang. When visiting, don’t forget to embrace and enjoy our unique language and culture!
