Key Takeaways
- Canadian English is under threat from the federal government’s adoption of British spelling
- Canadian spelling has unique rules and overlaps with both British and American English
- The use of Canadian spelling helps to distinguish Canada from its neighbors and honors its unique traditions
- The Canadian Oxford Dictionary, a key reference for Canadian English, has not been updated since 2004
- Efforts are being made to develop a new Canadian English dictionary and to defend the use of Canadian spelling
Introduction to the Threat to Canadian English
Canadian English is a distinct variety of the English language that reflects the country’s unique history, traditions, and cultural identity. However, it is currently under threat from the federal government’s adoption of British spelling in official documents and communications. This shift away from Canadian spelling has been noticed in recent federal budget documents and press releases from the Prime Minister’s office. The use of British spelling instead of Canadian spelling is a significant change that could have far-reaching consequences for the way Canadians communicate and express themselves.
The Importance of Canadian Spelling
Canadian spelling is an essential part of Canadian identity and helps to distinguish Canada from its neighbors. The use of Canadian spelling is not just a matter of aesthetics; it also reflects the country’s unique history and cultural traditions. Canadian English has its own distinct rules and overlaps with both British and American English. For example, Canadian English uses the "u" in words like "colour" and "honour," which is similar to British English. However, it also uses the "z" in words like "analyze," which is similar to American English. The use of Canadian spelling is a way for Canadians to assert their independence and unique cultural identity.
The Role of Institutions in Maintaining Canadian Spelling
Institutions such as the media, educational institutions, and government agencies play a crucial role in maintaining Canadian spelling. The Globe and Mail, a leading Canadian newspaper, has been a strong advocate for Canadian spelling and has used it consistently in its publications since 1990. Other newspapers and media outlets have followed suit, and Canadian spelling is widely used in Canadian media and education. However, the federal government’s adoption of British spelling has raised concerns about the future of Canadian English. It is essential for institutions to continue to use and promote Canadian spelling to ensure its survival and continued use.
The Need for a Modern Canadian English Dictionary
The Canadian Oxford Dictionary, which is the last remaining full-sized reference book for Canadian English, has not been updated since 2004. This means that it does not include new words and usage that have emerged in Canadian English since then. The lack of a modern dictionary has made it difficult for Canadians to know what is considered standard Canadian English. The Society for Canadian English is currently seeking funding to develop a new Canadian English dictionary for both print and online. This dictionary will provide a much-needed resource for Canadians to learn and use Canadian English correctly. It will also help to promote the use of Canadian spelling and ensure its continued survival.
The Impact of the Federal Government’s Adoption of British Spelling
The federal government’s adoption of British spelling has significant implications for the use of Canadian English. It could lead to confusion about what is considered standard Canadian English and could undermine the use of Canadian spelling. The use of British spelling instead of Canadian spelling could also make it more difficult for Canadians to assert their unique cultural identity. It is essential for the federal government to reconsider its decision to adopt British spelling and to promote the use of Canadian spelling instead. By doing so, the government can help to ensure the continued survival and use of Canadian English.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canadian English is a unique and important part of Canadian identity and culture. The use of Canadian spelling is essential to maintaining this identity and distinguishing Canada from its neighbors. Institutions such as the media, educational institutions, and government agencies play a crucial role in maintaining Canadian spelling. The development of a modern Canadian English dictionary is also essential to promoting the use of Canadian English and ensuring its continued survival. The federal government’s adoption of British spelling is a significant threat to the use of Canadian English, and it is essential for the government to reconsider its decision and promote the use of Canadian spelling instead. By doing so, Canadians can ensure the continued survival and use of their unique and important cultural heritage.