It is amusing to see what kind of things light people up. Language is one of the things that I discovered can really light people up.
An example of this? The other day, just out of the blue I said that wanted to pop into the store to get a “soda.” I used the word “soda” for no good reason. I just said it rather randomly.
The reaction I received was visceral. “That is an American word. In Canada we say POP.” Yikes.
After that reaction I decided to begin an experiment. I have been using the word “soda” everywhere I go. And by and large, people get outraged by the word! It is the funniest thing.
Are there words to you that are “American” words? Are there Canadian-only words? Care to add your words to this list?
Comments
4 responses to “Is Soda an American Word?”
I’m having a visceral response to this … not the word soda, but the lovely intestine-twisting “visceral” which coincidentally, I looked up in the dictionary for someone today.
The only ‘American’ word I cant think of is ‘strategery’ (care of one sadly undereducated American President)… that and ‘Y’all”… and soda. I think Soda is less American and more ‘old people’ though…my grandparents always say soda…???
Try sacks for grocery bags and see what reaction you get.
I’d have to add “toque” to this discussion – anyone ever tried that one out South of the border??