true north
1
8.6
- noun
- Canadian
:
verdadero norte
- In times of uncertainty, people often seek out true north to remind them of their national identity and shared values.
Examples
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Her speech invoked the resilience and unity of the true north.
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Many Canadians take pride in calling their country the true north.
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The poem describes the landscapes and spirit of the true north with admiration.
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Canada is often referred to as true north.
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We should embrace the values of true north in our policies.
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Many Canadians look to the values of honesty and kindness when they think about what it means to stay true to true north.
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Her passion for civil rights is one of the guiding principles that define her journey toward true north as a Canadian.
Surface Forms
Morphology
A B1 learner who knows 'true' and 'north' will readily get the literal sense (the exact or genuine northern direction), but the specific idiomatic use referring to Canada or to a nation's guiding values is a cultural/metaphorical extension that is not directly derivable from the parts. Because there is a recognizable metaphorical link (true = genuine; north = direction/guide) the meaning is partially inferable but still requires prior exposure or cultural knowledge to reach the intended sense.
Etymology
The phrase true north comes from a simple image: true means the fixed direction and north points to the North Pole, which sailors and explorers used to find their way. So, calling Canada the true north means the country is seen as a steady guide and a symbol of national 'identity' and 'values'.