Canadians have introduced a plate full of Canada’s slang, terms and expressions that reflect the country's rich history and diverse culture. From east to west and north to south, Canada boasts a linguistic tapestry that includes phrases and words that may leave outsiders scratching their heads. Whether you're planning a visit to the Great White North or simply curious about the linguistic landscape, prepare to dive into the world of Canadian sayings, eh?
Origins of Canadian Sayings
Canadian sayings have evolved due to several factors and now have become a distinct part of British and American English, too. Canadian sayings had a massive influence on the French, as in the early days, the languages intermingled and created this slang.
Another popular theory behind the emergence of the modern-day Canadian sayings has been linked to the presence of the Jamaican communities prevalent in Toronto which gave rise to the Jamaican Patois language. Looking to learn more about this North American nation and drop some lore in front of your friends? Here are some fun facts about Canada!
Most Popular Canadian Sayings
Apart from all the things Canadians are known for, they also have a language all their own. If you're planning a visit to the Great White North or just want to sound like a true Canadian, it's essential to familiarize yourself with some popular Canadian sayings. Here are the 20 most popular sayings in Canada that you must know.
1. Timmies
Timmies is the first in our list of most popular Canadian sayings, short for Tim Hortons, Canada's iconic coffee and doughnut chain. "Timmies" is where many Canadians start their day, whether it's with a double-double (a coffee with two creams and two sugars) or a box of Timbits (bite-sized doughnut holes).
Phrase: It feels so great to start my day with Timmies and my coffee!
2. Keener
Keener is another one of the Canadian sayings which means an individual who shows interest or concern and is also commonly known as a brownnoser.
Phrase: He's such a keener!
3. The 6ix
The 6ix is yet another endearing piece of Canadian sayings used as a nickname for Toronto. This particular term has gained significant popularity in recent years. It's closely associated with the city's vibrant culture and entertainment scene. It is also a nickname for Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Perth And Western Australia.
Phrase: Yeah, things are difficult, but the 6ix raised me well to deal with this!
4. Beauty
Beauty is one of the most delightful Canadian sayings used to express admiration and enthusiasm for someone or something that is truly outstanding or praiseworthy. It's the equivalent of saying ‘awesome’ or ‘fantastic’ in other parts of the world but with a uniquely Canadian flair.
Phrase: The sunset is such a beauty!
5. Canuck
Canuck is one of the Classy Canadian phrases that are not only used to describe a Canadian but also holds a unique place in Canadian sports. When someone uses the term "Canuck" to refer to a person, it's often done with a sense of camaraderie and national pride. It's a friendly and colloquial way of acknowledging one's Canadian identity.
Phrase: He's a canuck!
6. Clicks
This slang is used when Canadians refer to distances. They often do so in kilometres. The slang term "clicks" is a casual way of expressing distance in kilometres. So when someone says, "It's a few clicks down the road," they mean it's a few kilometres away.
Phrase: The boba cafe is just a few clicks away!
7. Fill Yer Boots
This is one of the most popular Canadian sayings that is basically an expression that means go ahead or help yourself, often used when offering someone something.
Phrase: There's plenty of poutine—fill yer boots!
8. Freezie
Freezie, a word mainly used by the Canucks, basically refers to a frozen popsicle-like treat, especially popular during the hot Canadian summers.
Phrase: The freezie is delicious!
9. Goal Suck
Goal suck is a unique Canadian term. It is a hockey-specific slang used to describe a player whose primary focus is only on scoring goals and not contributing to the overall team effort. In the fast-paced world of Canadian ice hockey, where teamwork is paramount, being labelled a "goal suck" is not a compliment.
Phrase: He didn't pass the puck, why is he being such a goal suck?
10. Gong Show
Gong show is a colourful Canadian slang term used to describe a situation that has devolved into chaos or disorder. When someone says this Canadian slang, they're emphasising the wild, unpredictable, and often amusing nature of the event.
Phrase: The party last night was a real gong show
11. Hoser
Hoser is a classic piece of Canadian slang that carries a unique blend of friendliness and playful teasing. It's an affectionate, light-hearted insult often used among friends to poke fun. When someone calls you a "hoser" or playfully says this Canadian slang, it's akin to calling you a "fool" in a good-natured way.
Phrase: You're such a hoser!
12. Jesus Murphy
Jesus Murphy is another one of the popular Canadian sayings that is used as an exclamation used to express surprise, frustration, or disbelief. It's a less offensive alternative to using stronger swear words.
Phrase: Jesus Murphy! Have you finished the whole cake?
13. Double-Double
Double-double is another typical Canadian slang term that holds a special place in the hearts of coffee lovers across the country. When you step up to any other Canadian coffee shop and request a "double-double," you're signalling that you want your coffee brewed just as many Canadians prefer: with two creams and two sugars.
Phrase: Could I have a double-double, please?
14. Mickey
A mickey is a Canadian slang term used to refer to a small bottle of alcohol, typically containing 375 ml of liquid.
Phrase: I have carried a mickey for our trip!
15. Molson Muscle
Molson muscle is a light-hearted and playful Canadian slang term used to describe a beer belly or the accumulation of excess abdominal weight, often associated humorously with the consumption of Molson beer, one of Canada's most well-known and beloved beer brands.
Phrase: Haha, forget a six-pack, I think I have a Molson muscle, mate!
16. Rink Rat
Rink rat is a colourful Canadian slang term used to affectionately describe individuals who devote a significant amount of their time to the ice rink, particularly avid hockey enthusiasts. These dedicated fans can often be found at local arenas, either playing the game themselves or passionately supporting their favourite teams and players.
Phrase: He has always been fond of hockey! He is such a rink rat!
17. Snowbirds
Snowbirds is one of the quintessential Canadian phrases that describe a unique seasonal migration pattern. It refers to Canadians who escape the harsh winter cold by heading south to warmer climates, often to destinations in the southern United States, such as Florida, Arizona, or California.
Phrase: He always leaves for Miami every winter! He's such a snowbird, no?
18. Two-Four
Two-four is a quintessential Canadian saying that's intimately linked to the nation's love for socialising and enjoying a good time with friends and family. This term refers to a case of 24 beers, which is a common purchase for Canadians gearing up for a social gathering, a weekend getaway, or any occasion that calls for some cold brews.
Phrase: I'm so sorry I'm a tad late. I was just grabbing some two-fours for the evening!
19. Puck Bunny
Puck bunny is a Canadian slang term that's used to describe someone, typically female, who is attracted to hockey players. However, it's important to note that this term isn't always used in a flattering or respectful way.
Phrase: That puck bunny is so gorgeous!
20. What you sayin'?
What you sayin' is one of the most misleading and popular Canadian sayings. This Canadian slang is used to ask people how they're doing, synonymous with the phrase What are you up to?
Phrase: What you sayin' this Friday?
21. Chesterfield
Used very frequently by the older crowd, this Canadian phrase denotes a couch or a sofa!
Phrase: Go eat at the Chesterfield?
22. Serviette
Serviette sounds French, right? This Canadian slang is just another one that is a nod to the French lingo that means a napkin!
Phrase: Could you please grab me a serviette?
23. Coupe Longueuil
Another French-inspired popular Canadian sayings is coupe Longueuil. It basically means a haircut that is all party in the back but a full business look, which is also known as the mullet haircut.
Phrase: I have to visit the salon to get my coupe Longueuil!
24. Mans
You'd probably think of a man after you read this, right? But actually, mans is just used synonymously as I. This is one of the popular Canadian sayings which denotes a first person.
Phrase: it snowed so much, man had to grab my boots and jacket!
25. Toque
The Canadian slang term toque is as essential to Canadian winters as snowflakes and hot chocolate. This humble word refers to a warm, knitted hat, typically made of wool or similar insulating material, designed to keep the head snug and comfortable during Canada's bone-chilling winters.
Phrase: The temperature has fallen since yesterday, I need to grab my toque!
26. Parkade
Parking lot? Garage? No, in Canada, they call it a parkade!
Phrase: I’ll meet you lot after parking my Chevy in the parkade.
27. Stagette
A stagette is essentially the Canadian version of a bachelorette party. The male version of the same would be a stag party.
Phrase: I don’t think I would want to invite her to my stagette after what happened the last time we went out drinking.
28. Dart
Smoking a dart is the same as taking a short smoke break. We guess cigarettes are kind of shaped like darts.
Phrase: Let’s go out for a quick dart break. That meeting was stressful!
29. Hooped
Hooped in Western Canada is the same as the American slang, “screwed”. It means being in a bad or hopeless situation.
Phrase: I seriously can’t believe you said that to your boss! You’re hooped, mate.
30. Hang a Larry/Hang a Roger
You, in fact, do not hang either Larry or Roger. These Canadian sayings are used to give directions, such as left and right. Larry is left, and Roger means right.
Phrase: Take a U-turn from here and hang a Larry in about a kilometre.
Now that you're equipped with these 30 popular Canadian sayings, you can confidently navigate conversations and embrace the unique linguistic culture of Canada. Also, you can explore the best things to do in Canada. Whether you're enjoying Timmies, attending a hockey game, or exploring the beautiful Canadian landscapes, these slang in Canada will help you fit right in with the locals. Beauty, eh? Also, if you are a student planning to go to Canada for studies, then you should definitely check out this blog of the 10 best universities in Canada.