Newfoundland Phrasebook Part 1
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Speak Like a Local
"What are you at?" — If you are confused, start here.
Newfoundland English is a language all its own. Born from 400 years of isolation and mixed with Irish and West Country English roots, it evolved differently here than in the rest of Canada.
English is the main language, and you'll have no problem communicating. But you will stumble across terms that leave you scratching your head. Here is your essential guide to understanding your new Newfoundland friends.
Twack
To go shopping or look around a store without any real intention of buying anything.
"I'm just going out for a twack."
Scoff
A large, satisfying, and often heavy meal. Usually cooked at home.
"We had a wicked scoff of Jiggs Dinner last night."
Hove Off
To relax, chill out, or stop working for the day.
"I'm going to be hove off today."
Have a Yarn
To have a chat or tell a story. It implies a casual, friendly conversation, often over tea or a drink.
Mug Up
A snack and a cup of tea, usually between meals or before bed. If invited for a "mug up," always say yes.
The Woods
What mainlanders call "The Forest." If you say you are going for a walk in the forest, you might get a funny look. It's "The Woods."
Bridge vs. Porch
A Bridge is your front deck/entrance (not a structure over water). A Porch is usually the mudroom or entryway inside the house.
Wharf vs. Dock
You tie your boat to a Wharf. "Docking" is the action you perform. The structure itself is almost always called a wharf.
The "Ingressive" Yes
Advanced Level
Most human speech happens while breathing out. In Newfoundland, we have a special word spoken while breathing in.
"Yeah" (Gasp)
It sounds like a sharp intake of breath while saying "Yeah." It is a relaxed way of agreeing with someone while showing sympathy for their story. Give it a try—locals love it when you get the hang of it.
The "Dinner" Confusion
This is the most common mix-up for visitors. The schedule goes like this:
- Lunch = A snack (usually eaten at night).
- Dinner = The midday meal (what you call Lunch).
- Supper = The evening meal (what you call Dinner).
Example: If someone offers you a "lunch" at 9 PM, they are offering you a snack. If they ask what you had for "dinner," they mean your noon meal.
How to greet a Local
Them: "What are ya at?" (What are you up to?)
You: "This is it." (Not much.)
Them: "This is it."
It's a verbal tennis match. You've now successfully completed a Newfoundland greeting.