Canadian - Greetings (2024)

FAQs

What is a typical Canadian greeting? ›

Kisses, hugs or handshakes? You will often see Canadians giving one another light hugs upon greeting. This is a sign that these people are good friends or family. The basic greeting in Canada is a firm handshake with eye-to-eye contact.

Usually we say 'Namaskara' or 'Nmasthe' as our old tradition. But in recent days Kannada youths ise different form of words while meeting people. If they meet friends they starts with 'hae maga' or 'ey maga' most commonly.

We're polite, remember? A simple “fine, thanks!” or “not too bad, thanks!” is good enough. You can respond by asking in kind, as well, and I often do.

Some Canadians say 'hey' instead of 'eh'

The stereotype is true — we often end our sentences with "eh" to seek assurance from or express solidarity with the person we're talking to. But some Canadians, particularly those from the west coast, will end their sentences with "hey" instead.

"Bon matin" (bohn-mah-teen) is a popular way to say “good morning” in Canada. Bon matin is the literal, word-for-word translation of “good morning” in French. Only use this greeting if you're in Quebec, as many European French speakers don't consider bon matin to be a “real” part of the language.

Canadian Culture

A handshake is the common greeting between strangers. Shaking with a firm hand and eye contact reflects confidence. Canadians may laugh lightly over handshakes to diffuse the formality. French Canadians may also greet each other by lightly kissing both cheeks once, starting on the left.

Fill Yer Boots. This is one of the most popular Canadian sayings that means go ahead or help yourself, and it is often used when offering someone something.

"Nize it/nize that" (to tell someone to shut up or stop talking) "Say less/say no more/don't say a word" (used to enthusiastically or supportively agree to a demand, request, or suggestion)

Politeness and fairness: Canadians value politeness, saying “please” and “thank you” in many social situations; they are often apologetic, and may even say “Excuse me” or “I'm sorry'” if someone else has bumped into them.

How do Canadians say I'm sorry? ›

In other words, where many US speakers will pronounce "sorry" like "sari", (i.e. in the lot Lexical Set), Canadians make the first syllable like "sore." In fact, when Canadian actors learn that US speakers say "sorry/sari" in the same manner, they often remark "where's the pain in that?" For us, "sorry," the word many ...

Smiling and friendly eye contact is common when interacting with others, even strangers. Avoid interrupting someone else if they are speaking, and avoid pointing your finger at others. Another form of politeness is heard in how Canadians make requests.

Using “eh” to end the statement of an opinion or an explanation is a way for the speaker to express solidarity with the listener.

Canada. “In Canada, it is customary to raise a glass and toast with a simple 'cheers,' with the wish of happiness and good health as we clink our glasses and make eye contact to those around us,” says Sam Clark, Regional Manager of Bars and Mixology for Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.