The Métis Language Michif
- auindigenousstuden
- Nov 20, 2025
- 2 min read
In this Métis week post, we explore today’s topic with our voice-the Michif language! Michif was curated for and by the Métis people, originally from the French fur traders and First Nations women, consisting of a combination of French nouns and Cree/Algonquin verbs. Since the Métis were a travelling people, there are different dialects across Canada. Let’s explore each dialect a little further 🔍
Northern Michif: this dialect is more common in Northern Alberta, Saskatchewan and some parts of Northern British Columbia, which has more of a variety of Cree verbs compared to French nouns.
Southern Michif: also known as “heritage michif”, this dialect is more common in Southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and extends down into the Montana and North Dakota states. This dialect uses a fair combination of French nouns and Cree verbs, which also makes it slightly more grammatically complex.
French Michif: this dialect is spoken all the way from Ontario to British Columbia, more prominent communities such as St. Louis, Saskatchewan and Batoche, Manitoba. French Michif was a blend of French with Algonquin influences, which makes it unique to that of Northern and Southern Michif.
To practice with the language, and how to introduce yourself, read out loud below:
Let's Practice!
“Hello, my name is ________.”
Language | Northern | Southern | French |
Phrase | “Tȃn’si, nisihkȃson ___________” | “Taanishi, dishinihkaashoon ________). | Boon zhoor, Mon non si ________). |
Pronunciation | (tawn-seh, neh-see-kah-sunn __________). | (tawn-sheh, dish-shek-neh-ka-shunn ________). | (boh juurr, moh noh seh ________). |
Amazing! Being able to pronounce words in other languages and dialects is a really cool thing to accomplish. The fun and learning of Michif doesn’t stop here. Down below are more resources available online to further learn the Michif dialects for yourself, a friend or family member.
Thank you/Maarsii!
Ways to Learn:
This post is part of our celebration of Métis week. Where the AU Indigenous Student Alliance, is highlighting the history, culture and presence of the Métis people. On November 22 we will gather for a fun game testing our knowledge, gifting prizes and connecting as AU students and alumni! All answers from the game will be within these posts, so come back each day to take a read and RSVP on our eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/metis-week-wayground-game-night-tickets-1968888557677?aff=oddtdtcreator
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