Even though Canadians and Americans live right next door, we don’t always speak the same language. Okay, maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration. But if you’re an American visiting Canada, be prepared to be puzzled by some very bizarre words.
This list covers 12 of the weirdest Canadianisms that are pretty much guaranteed to confuse any American within an earshot.
1. Eh?
This classic Canadian phrase gets tacked onto the end of sentences, almost like a question mark. It’s used to confirm if someone understands or agrees with what was just said.
For Americans, having “eh?” at the end can make even a straightforward statement sound like it’s seeking verification. This quirky usage definitely takes some getting used to.
2. Double-Double
In Canada, this refers to a coffee order with two creams and two sugars. To an American, it just sounds like they’re asking for two coffees! The double-double lingo is almost like a secret menu code that leaves outsiders utterly lost.
3. Keener
This slang term describes someone who is overly enthusiastic or eager, basically a totally gung-ho overachiever. While the word makes sense in context, “keener” is definitely not part of the American English vocabulary. Get ready for some strange looks if you use it stateside.
4. Give’r
Shortened from “give’r all you got,” this phrase means doing something with maximum effort. Americans might interpret it way too literally as just “give her” whatever directly. The casual Canadian slang doesn’t directly translate.
5. Pencil Crayon
In the U.S., these awesome coloring utensils are simply called “colored pencils.” But in Canada, they get the super unique name “pencil crayons” instead. Such a subtle difference, but it’s enough to potentially spark mass confusion.
6. Stagette
This is the Canadian term for a bachelorette party celebrating a bride-to-be. Most Americans are probably familiar with just calling it a bachelorette or bachelor party. “Stagette” makes it sound like a bizarre theater performance.
7. Rip-off
No, this does not mean someone got scammed or robbed like the American definition. In Canada, a “rip-off” is just slang for a cheap candy bar or chocolate treat, especially those teeny ones. Mind blown!
8. Toque
What Americans know as a warm winter hat is called a “toque” in Canadian lingo. Use the incorrect term and you might as well be speaking another language. No hat confusion will ever be the same.
9. Parkade
Sounds like a quaint little outdoor space, right? Nope, it’s just a super informal Canadian way of saying “parking garage.” Good luck figuring that one out through context clues alone.
10. Chinook
In the U.S., this just means a Native American tribe. But in Canada, a “chinook” refers to a warm wind that blows in and melts all the snow for a while. What an unexpected meteorological difference!
11. Bush Party
Before you start thinking of wild college ragers, know that in Canada this just refers to a tame little outdoor gathering, perhaps in the woods. Not as scandalous as the American mind might assume.
12. Depanneur
This funny French Canadian term covers what Americans would simply call a “convenience store.” Good luck keeping a straight face while saying this mouthful out loud. Just give up and call it a “dep” like the locals.
Conclusion
Even though Canadians and Americans live so close together, the English languages in both countries can sound totally different at times. There are so many Canadianisms that leave Americans utterly confused.
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