Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has found himself at the centre of an unexpected linguistic controversy, facing criticism for his persistent use of British English spellings in official government documents.
Linguists Issue Open Letter Over Spelling 'Infraction'
The dispute came to a head when six prominent Canadian linguists penned an open letter chastising the Prime Minister. They highlighted his growing "utilisation" of British conventions, specifically the use of 's' instead of 'z' in words like "catalyse". This was observed in key documents, including the recent federal budget and a press release issued after a meeting with former US President Donald Trump.
The linguists, who are university professors and editors, called on Carney's office, the government, and parliament to adhere strictly to Canadian English spelling standards. They noted this was the system consistently used from the 1970s until 2025. The group warned that governmental deviation from this norm "could lead to confusion about which spelling is Canadian."
A Question of National Identity and History
The letter frames Canadian English as a source of national pride and a vital element of the country's identity. It explains that the nation's distinct spelling reflects its unique colonial legacy, evolving from Loyalist settlement after the American Revolutionary War and subsequent waves of immigration from the British Isles.
"Canadian English...reflects global influences and cultures from around the world represented in our population, as well as containing words and phrases from Indigenous languages," the linguists stated. They argued that the deliberate use of this spelling style in media and government documents helps preserve this historical tapestry.
The Nuances of the Canadian Lexicon
The controversy underscores the nuanced position of Canadian English, which often navigates a middle path between British and American conventions. The linguists cited the Canadian Press stylebook, which shows an aversion to certain British forms (preferring 'tire' over 'tyre', 'jail' over 'gaol') while also rejecting some American versions (using 'cheque' instead of 'check', 'manoeuvre' instead of 'maneuver').
The lexicon is further enriched by borrowings from French and Indigenous languages. For instance, 'toque' for a winter hat originates from French and Métis fur traders, and 'muskeg' (for peat lands) derives from the Cree word 'maskek'.
In a pointed nod to Carney's noted fondness for hockey metaphors—used recently to describe trade battles with the United States—the linguists suggested that preserving Canadian English is "the simplest way to take an 'elbows up' stance."
The Prime Minister's office has not responded to requests for comment on the spelling choices. Carney, who served as Governor of the Bank of England for seven years before returning to Canadian politics, appears to have carried some linguistic habits back across the Atlantic, much to the dismay of the country's language guardians.
