Old Imperial Measurements in Canada: A Lingering Legacy

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While the metric system is the official measurement unit in Canada and is widely used, the country still retains a few vestiges of its imperial past. In this article, we explore how Canadians use old imperial measurements and the contexts in which these terms persist.

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Imperial Terms in Use

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Measuring distances, weights, and temperatures, Canadians often find themselves using both metric and imperial terms. Here we discuss the cases where old imperial measurements still hold a place in everyday Canadian life:

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Distances: Miles vs. Kilometers

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When it comes to travel, road signs in Canada predominantly use kilometers, but distances in miles are still used in certain contexts. For instance, in sports, especially for running or cycling events, athletes might measure distances in miles. This is also true for older individuals or those with strong ties to the United States, particularly in border regions.

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A 45-year-old Canadian might rely on miles for personal fitness goals, converting them to kilometers when driving. Consider:

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‘Always, I still order my meat in pounds.’

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Such references to pounds for meat ordering are common, especially among older generations or those who grew up with imperial measurements. This preference might persist due to familiarity and comfort, even when ordering at restaurants or in grocery stores. For context, driving 50 miles in the US translates to approximately 80 kilometers, making it easy to navigate between imperial and metric distances.

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Weights: Pounds vs. Kilograms

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In the context of body measurements and fitness, Canadians often continue to use pounds and inches. While daily transactions like retail purchases use kilograms and meters, the measurement of human body size remains a unique exception. For instance, one might say someone is '5 foot 11 inches and 190 pounds,' and this phrase would be instantly recognizable to most people familiar with such measurements.

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However, when it comes to fuel consumption, the situation changes. Gasoline is sold by the liter, and references to gallons would be considered outdated and confusing. A price of $4.50 per gallon translates to roughly $1.00 per liter, making the distinction between the two systems clear.

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Temperatures: Fahrenheit vs. Celsius

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Temperature measurements provide an interesting insight into how Canadians navigate between imperial and metric systems. Commonly, when interacting with Americans, temperature discussions might switch to Fahrenheit, which is the standard in the US. However, for everyday weather forecasts or scientific purposes, Celsius is the predominant unit.

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One might say, ‘It’s 35 degrees Fahrenheit’ to an American friend but would specify ‘Celsius’ for a weather report or scientific discussion. This dual-use approach showcases the awareness of both systems among Canadians.

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Regional Variations and Preferences

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The use of imperial measurements shows regional variations within Canada. Ontario is particularly noted for a mix of metric and imperial usage, where both systems are familiar. Quebec might lean more towards metric, but it retains some imperial familiarity. In Alberta, a province with a strong connection to North American culture, imperial measurements find a comfortable place, especially in rural areas or among older generations.

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But broader acceptance of the metric system is advantageous for public services and industries that involve international standards. The government and educational systems are moving towards teaching and using only the metric system, with many Canadians adjusting to the change over time.

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Conclusion

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While the metric system has become the standard in Canada, old imperial measurements still hold a soft spot in the hearts and minds of many Canadians. This article highlights how these measurements persist in specific contexts and the regional variations that exist. Whether it’s miles for athletic distances, pounds for body sizes, or gallons for a nostalgic conversion, the old imperial systems remain an integral part of Canadian culture, especially among older generations and those with strong US ties.