Aboriginal Peoples
/ab-uh-RIJ-uh-nl/
The first inhabitants of Canada. The Constitution recognizes three groups: First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
Understanding key terms is essential for passing the Canadian citizenship test. This glossary covers over 200 important words and concepts from the Discover Canada study guide, organized by category. Master these terms to build a solid foundation for your citizenship test preparation.
Each term includes a clear definition and the category it belongs to. Use this glossary alongside your citizenship study guide and practice tests for comprehensive preparation.
/ab-uh-RIJ-uh-nl/
The first inhabitants of Canada. The Constitution recognizes three groups: First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
/uh-LEE-juns/
Loyalty or commitment, especially to the Sovereign or country. New citizens swear allegiance in the Oath of Citizenship.
/by-LING-gwul/
Able to speak two languages. Canada is officially bilingual (English and French).
/KAB-ih-net/
A group of ministers chosen by the Prime Minister to run government departments and make major decisions.
/CHAR-ter/
Part of the Constitution that guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to everyone in Canada. Enacted in 1982.
/SIT-ih-zen-ship/
The status of being a member of a country, with associated rights and responsibilities.
/kon-fed-er-AY-shun/
The union of provinces that created Canada on July 1, 1867. Also refers to the process of adding new provinces.
/kon-stih-TOO-shun/
The supreme law of Canada. Includes the Constitution Act 1867, Constitution Act 1982, and the Charter of Rights.
/mon-AR-kee/
A system where the Sovereign (King/Queen) is Head of State, but governs according to the Constitution.
Represents the Sovereign. The Crown is a symbol of government and appears on courts, currency, and official buildings.
/deh-MOK-ruh-see/
Government by the people, through elected representatives. Canada is a parliamentary democracy.
A geographical area represented by one Member of Parliament. Also called a "riding" or "constituency."
/FED-er-al-izm/
A system of government where powers are divided between a central government and regional governments.
Aboriginal peoples of Canada who are neither Inuit nor Métis. There are over 630 First Nation communities.
Canada's electoral system where the candidate with the most votes in each riding wins.
The representative of the Sovereign in Canada. Performs ceremonial duties and gives Royal Assent to laws.
/HAY-bee-us KOR-pus/
The right not to be held in prison without being charged with a specific crime. A fundamental legal right.
The elected chamber of Parliament with 338 Members of Parliament (MPs). The democratic heart of the government.
The process of moving to a new country to live permanently. Canada welcomes about 400,000 immigrants annually.
/IN-oo-it/
Aboriginal peoples of Arctic Canada. The word means "the people" in Inuktitut.
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