"Anna from Canada"

I had a feeling this would happen, but I am finding that it is easy for people to remember who I am as the lone Canadian, and I think that it doesn't help that my name to some extent is similar to the word Canada. As a result, anytime that I try and make fun of something or someone the response is typically, "Oh, but you're Canadian". I am now going to start what I hope will be regular posts about language differences and things that I have found funny, especially in regards to slang statements, or common phrases.

1. "I am sorted".
Translation: Everything is now worked out.

2. "Me as well"
Translation: Same as in Canada, but used so frequently, especially "as well", with the emphasis on "as".

3. "Fizzy cold drink"
Translation: Pop. I am surprised by this one. Yesterday, I suggested that perhaps coffee be referred to as "non fizzy hot drink" but no one found that entertaining.

4. "She gyms it twice a day"
Translation: She goes to the gym twice a day.

5. "Are you keen"
Translation: Does that sound like a good idea? or Are you interested in coming? This also isn't any different than the Canadian meaning, just used far more frequently.

6. "Shame"
Translation: That's too bad. Again, I understand the meaning, but really, I think that everyone is obligated to say it at least 10x a day.

So perhaps those aren't really exciting, and next week I'll touch on some of the Afrikaans words that are you used in everyday language. I kind of feel that those are cheating because it is simply used words from another language, not necessary slang. First one to try and guess on is: What is a braai?

All the best, I promise I'm working on loading up photos...
Anna*