Words (Core Vocabulary)
- sorry (acknowledging impact, not guilt), excuse me, please/thank you
- washroom (restroom), lineup (line), loonie/toonie ($1/$2 coins)
- toque/tuque (knit hat), parka, mitts
- hydro bill (electricity), parkade (parking garage), serviette (napkin)
- double-double (coffee with 2 cream, 2 sugar), runners (sneakers)
- “eh” (tag for checking agreement/softening), no worries, cheers (thanks/goodbye)
Phrases (Soft, friendly, clear)
In public
- Sorry—could I squeeze by, please?
- Is this the lineup for tickets, or for pick-up?
- Where’s the washroom, please?
At stores & cafés
- Hi there— a medium latte, please; thanks so much.
- Could I tap to pay, and can I get a receipt, please?
Everyday moments
- Mind if I grab that last seat? Thanks!
- Sorry! Go ahead (holding door).
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Transit: Excuse me— is this seat taken?
- Queue: Is this the end of the lineup for passports?
- Coffee: Medium drip, with room—thanks. (Double-double at Tim’s.)
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
- say sorry/excuse me
- ask politely
- hold the door
- wait in a lineup
- use please/thanks
- order a double-double
- carry a toque in winter
Canadian Cultural Context
- Softeners (“Could you…”, “Would you mind…”) make requests feel polite.
- Many homes are shoes-off; ask at the door.
- People often queue with space; no cutting—just ask if you’re unsure.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Polite ask: “Would you mind if I join the table for a minute?”
- Tiny apology: “Sorry about that— after you.”
- Check-in tag: “Nice weather, eh?”