Ever tried talking to a Canadian and felt like you needed subtitles? Even though we speak the same language, our neighbors to the north have some pretty wacky ways of saying things. It’s like they’ve got their own secret code!
These 15 Canadian Phrases might leave Americans scratching their heads.
Give’r
This phrase means to put in maximum effort or go all out. Canadians use it to encourage someone or describe intense action. It’s like saying “Go for it!” or “Give it your all!” Americans might be confused at first, thinking something is being given away
Two-four
This isn’t about numbers, it’s about beer! A “two-four” refers to a case of 24 beers. It’s commonly used when talking about plans for the weekend or parties. Americans might think Canadians are talking about the time or a date. It’s a handy shortcut for beer lovers.
Timbits
These are what Americans would call donut holes. They’re bite-sized pieces of fried dough sold at Tim Hortons, a popular Canadian coffee chain. Canadians love snacking on these little treats. Americans might think it’s a weird way to refer to small bits of wood.
Tuque
This is the Canadian word for a warm winter hat, usually knitted. Americans would call this a beanie. Canadians wear tuques all winter to keep their heads warm. It might sound like “tuck” to American ears, causing some confusion.
Loonie” and “Toonie
These aren’t cartoon characters, they’re nicknames for Canadian money. A “loonie” is a one-dollar coin, and a “toonie” is a two-dollar coin. The loonie has a loon bird on it, hence the name. Americans might think Canadians are talking nonsense when discussing prices.
Double-double
This isn’t a math term, it’s a way to order coffee. It means a coffee with two creams and two sugars. It’s especially common at Tim Hortons. Americans might be puzzled, thinking it’s a special type of coffee drink.
Hang a Larry” or “Hang a Roger
These phrases mean to turn left or right while driving. “Hang a Larry” means turn left, while “Hang a Roger” means turn right. It’s a fun way to give directions. Americans might wonder who Larry and Roger are and why they’re hanging around.
Keener
This is used to describe someone who is extremely eager or enthusiastic, especially about work or school. It’s similar to a “teacher’s pet” or “overachiever” in American English. Canadians might use it as a gentle tease. Americans could mistake it for a last name or a strange compliment.
Parkade
This is what Canadians call a multi-level parking garage. It’s a blend of “park” and “arcade”. Canadians use this term casually when talking about where to leave their cars. Americans might think it’s a place to play games while parking.
Mickey
In Canada, a “mickey” is a small bottle of liquor, usually 375 ml. It has nothing to do with the famous mouse. Canadians might ask for a mickey at a liquor store. Americans could be very confused, wondering why someone wants a Disney character with their drink.
Also read: 11 Weird Yet Fascinating Canadian Traditions
Homo milk
This isn’t as strange as it sounds – it’s just short for “homogenized milk”. It’s whole milk with 3.25% fat content. Canadians use this term casually in grocery stores. Americans might be shocked or confused by the term if they don’t know the context.
Garburator
This is the Canadian term for what Americans call a garbage disposal. It’s the device in some kitchen sinks that grinds up food waste. Canadians might complain about a broken garburator. Americans could think it’s some kind of weird Canadian monster.
Kerfuffle
While not exclusively Canadian, this word is used more commonly there. It means a commotion or fuss, often minor. Canadians might use it to describe a small argument or mix-up. Americans might think it sounds like a made-up word from a children’s book.
Bunnyhug
In Saskatchewan, this is what they call a hooded sweatshirt or hoodie. It’s a regional term that even surprises other Canadians. Saskatchewan folks might ask to borrow your bunnyhug on a chilly day. Americans would probably picture a cute rabbit cuddle instead of clothing.
Fill your boots
This phrase means “go ahead” or “help yourself”. It’s used when offering something or giving permission. Canadians might say this when telling someone to take as much as they want. Americans could be confused, wondering why anyone would want to fill their boots with anything.
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