Each country has its own unique sayings, phrases, and expressions. One common thing that international students notice when they move to a new country is the linguistic differences. Canada is known for its diversity, unique cultural identity, and friendly people. It has its own phrases and sayings. In this blog, we have compiled a list of common words and phrases that are commonly used by ‘Canucks’. Let’s explore some of these interesting Canadian sayings that will help you in your conversations!
Table of contents
List of Canadian Sayings
There are certain things that you must be aware of when you start your study abroad journey in Canada. Just like how you should be aware of the basic manners and etiquette in Canada, you must also be aware of common Canadian sayings and slang. Knowing these things will make your stay in Canada comfortable and easy. So, here are some common Canadian sayings!
“Eh?”
What does it mean:
This tiny word is a classic Canadian expression. It’s often added at the end of a sentence to turn it into a question or to seek agreement.
How Canadians use it:
- “Nice weather today, eh?”
- It’s friendly, polite, and shows you’re open to others’ opinions.
“Loonie” and “Toonie”
Refers to Canadian currency:
- Loonie = USD 1 coin (has a loon on it)
- Toonie = USD 2 coin (combo of ‘two’ and ‘loonie’)
Fun facts for students:
These terms are used daily. Don’t be surprised if a cashier says, “That’ll be three loonies and a toonie!”
“Double-Double”
What does it mean at Tim Hortons?
This refers to coffee with two sugars and two creams.
Why students should know it:
It’s a Tim Hortons classic. If you want to sound local while ordering your caffeine fix, this is your go-to term!
“True North Strong and Free”
Cultural meaning:
A proud phrase from the Canadian national anthem that reflects patriotism and unity.
Where does it come from?
You’ll hear this in sports events, public gatherings, and national celebrations.
“Sorry!”
How often Canadians use it:
A lot! Even if it’s not their fault, Canadians often say sorry to show politeness and avoid conflict.
Cultural politeness:
It’s more than just a word—it’s a way of life!
“Toque” (Pronounced “tuke”)
Meaning:
A winter hat, often woollen, perfect for cold Canadian winters.
Usage in daily life:
You’ll hear, “Don’t forget your toque—it’s freezing!” from your roommate before stepping out.
“Hang a Larry / Hang a Roger”
Meaning:
- Hang a Larry = Turn left
- Hang a Roger = Turn right
Regional usage:
Popular in western provinces and among older Canadians. Handy for road trips or giving directions.
“Hydro Bill”
Refers to:
Your electricity bill. In provinces like Ontario, power is provided by Hydro companies.
Why it matters:
If you’re renting, this will show up as “Hydro” on your monthly utility costs.
“Chesterfield”
What does it mean:
It’s an old-school word for sofa or couch.
Old-school vs modern slang:
More common among older generations, but still fun to know if you hear it in conversations or in rental listings.
“Klicks”
Meaning:
Short for kilometres.
Common in driving or distance talks:
“Campus is 5 klicks from here” means it’s 5 kilometres away. Super common in both rural and urban areas.
Also Read: If you are an adventure enthusiast, then you must read our blog on Outdoor Adventures in Canada
Regional Canadian Sayings
Canada is huge, and so is its variety of regional slang. Different provinces and territories have their own unique sayings. If you’re studying in Canada, it’s helpful (and fun!) to know what locals say in different areas. Here are some of the most common regional Canadian sayings and where you’ll hear them:
| Saying | Region | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| “Fill your boots” | Alberta | Go ahead and enjoy it / help yourself. |
| “Right off the hop” | British Columbia | Immediately or right away. |
| “What’s the scoop?” | Ontario | What’s the latest news or gossip? |
| “Stay where you’re at and I’ll come where you’re to” | Newfoundland & Labrador | I’ll come to you. Often used during calls. |
| “Out for a rip” | Central Canada (esp. Ontario) | Going for a drive or just having a good time. |
| “Give’r” | Western provinces | Put in your best effort / go all out. |
| “Hoser” | Stereotypically Ontario | A silly or foolish person. Meant humorously. |
| “Screeched in” | Newfoundland | A fun local initiation ceremony involving rum for newcomers. |
| “Two-four” | Nationwide, mostly Ontario | A 24-pack of beer. Common among college students and party-goers. |
| “The Peg” | Manitoba (Winnipeg) | Nickname for the city of Winnipeg. |
Tip: If you’re moving to a specific province, listen for these phrases! They’re great conversation starters and will help you connect with local friends more easily.
Further Read: If you are planning to move to Canada, then apart from the common Canadian sayings, you must also be aware of Weird Canadian Laws.
Funny and Quirky Canadian Sayings You’ll Love
Canada isn’t just polite—it’s got a great sense of humour too! From east to west, Canadians use some seriously quirky sayings that might sound strange at first, but will make you smile once you get them. Let’s check out a few regional favourites!
| Saying | Region | What It Means | Where You’ll Hear It |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Give’r” | Alberta / Prairies | Go all out, give it your best! | During work, parties, or outdoor adventures |
| “Fill your boots” | Western Canada | Go ahead and enjoy something as much as you like | Informal chats, often with food or freebies |
| “Right off the hop” | Ontario / West Coast | Immediately or right from the start | Work or class settings |
| “Out for a rip” | Ontario | Going out casually, often for a drive | Friends talking about weekend plans |
| “Screech-in” | Newfoundland & Labrador | A traditional ceremony to welcome newcomers | Local pubs and coastal communities |
| “Stay where you’re to” | Newfoundland | Stay where you are | Common during family visits or calls |
| “Hoser” | Across Canada (humorous) | A goofy or clumsy person (used jokingly) | Friendly teasing among friends |
| “Keener” | National | Someone too eager or overachieving | Common in schools and classrooms |
| “It’s cold enough to freeze your nose hairs” | National | Really, REALLY cold | Everyday winter talk—brace yourself! |
| “Beauty, eh?” | British Columbia | That’s awesome, or really good | When something works out great or looks amazing |
Tips to Use Canadian Sayings Confidently
Using Canadian slang and sayings can be a fun way to connect with locals. It might feel awkward at first, but with a little practice, you’ll sound like a pro. Here’s how to get started:
- Listen Before You Speak: Pay attention to how locals use words like “eh?” or “double-double” in real conversations. It helps you learn the tone and the right context.
- Practice with Friends: Don’t worry about being perfect. Try using common phrases with classmates or roommates. Canadians are super friendly—they’ll appreciate the effort.
- Start with the Easy Ones: Begin with simple and safe expressions like “loonie” for $1 or “sorry!” (you’ll probably use that one a lot anyway).
- Watch Canadian Shows or YouTube Creators: Shows like Letterkenny or Kim’s Convenience are great for hearing slang in real-life settings. YouTube vloggers also share how sayings are used casually.
- Ask When Unsure: If you hear something funny or confusing, just ask! Most Canadians love explaining their quirky sayings and helping newcomers fit in.
Canadian sayings are quirky, charming, and a huge part of the country’s cultural identity. Learning them can help you connect better with locals and feel more at home during your time in Canada. Don’t be shy—give it a try, eh?
FAQs on Canadian Sayings
One common expression used by Canadians is ‘eh’. This expression is used at the end of a sentence to confirm something.
Canadians use common words like ‘hi’ and ‘hello’ to greet each other. You’ll also find some people greeting each other by saying ‘bonjour’, especially in the Quebec region.
Canuck, toque, pop, and hydro are some very common words used in Canada.
A famous Canadian saying is ‘Sorry, eh!’. It’s a common etiquette to say sorry even when an apology may not be necessary. Adding ‘eh’ at the end of ‘sorry’ is something unique to Canada.
Canuck is a word used for Canadians.
It’s a line from Canada’s national anthem. It reflects Canadian pride and identity, often used in patriotic contexts or to express love for the country.
In most provinces, especially Ontario, a “hydro bill” means your electricity bill. It’s because many provinces use hydroelectric power for electricity.
These are fun ways of saying “turn left” (Larry) and “turn right” (Roger) in Canadian English. You might hear this while driving with locals.
“Chesterfield” is an old-fashioned Canadian term for a couch or sofa. While it’s not as common today, you’ll still hear it from older generations.
“Klicks” is Canadian military slang for kilometres. It’s often used in casual speech to describe distances, like “The store is 10 klicks away.”
This blog was all about some famous Canadian sayings. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
Follow Us on Social Media
