I have just returned from the most amazing travel experience in Newfoundland — a beautiful island rich in history on the east coast of Canada.
Although English and French are Canada’s official languages, according to educanada.ca there are more than 200 languages from around the world and 60 indigenous languages.
Attracted by the fishing industry, Newfoundland became an island with a mixture of European immigrants, particularly Irish. Today, Newfoundland can boast very unique dialects expressed from its “townies” to its “baymen”.
Dialects are significant because they reflect the culture and history of an area or region. And, Newfoundland had a lot of expressions to share! Here are a few fun ones.
Tell your mudder
Come from away.
God love your cotton socks.
Havin’ a time.
I dies at you.
No b’y.
Whadda ya at?
Someone who isn’t from Newfoundland.
Thank you.
Having a good time.
You’re funny.
Definitely not.
What are you doing?
I’m from Canada, eh! What are some of the unique expressions you hear in your region of the world?
Writing for you. 