The Lowdown on the 6ix: Decoding Toronto's Mysterious Nickname
So, you've heard the whispers, the slang, the battle cries of Drake concerts: Toronto's affectionately (and sometimes not-so-affectionately) referred to as "The 6ix." But what exactly does that cryptic nickname refer to? Is it a secret decoder ring situation for squirrels? A lost rap lyric about pizza toppings? Buckle up, because we're about to unravel the mystery behind the 6ix.
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| What Makes Up The Six Toronto |
It's All About the History, Baby!
The Borough Bunch: Turns out, Toronto wasn't always the monolithic metropolis it is today. Back in the day (we're talking pre-1998), the city was actually a collection of six separate municipalities. These were like bickering siblings under one roof – Scarborough, Old Toronto, Etobicoke, East York, North York, and the then-borough of York (which later became our Toronto). When these six finally decided to bury the hatchet and become one big, happy fam, the legend of the 6ix was born.
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Area Code Allure: Another theory ties the 6ix to Toronto's original area code, the iconic 416. While the city now boasts a handful of area codes, 416 still holds a special place in the heart (and phone number) of many Torontonians. So, "The 6" could be a subtle nod to this OG code, a way of saying, "We're repping the whole city, not just some fancy newfangled area."
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The Verdict: It's a Double Whammy!
The truth is, the 6ix likely references both the historical six municipalities and the 416 area code. It's a way to show love for Toronto's unique identity and diverse neighbourhoods. So, next time you hear someone shout "The 6ix," you can appreciate the layers of meaning behind that seemingly simple phrase.
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Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You're Curious)
How to sound like a Toronto local: Casually drop "the 6ix" into conversation. Bonus points for adding a toque in the winter.
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How to escape the 6ix traffic: Honestly, this one's a mystery even for Torontonians. Public transportation, anyone?
How to find the best pizza in the 6ix: This might take some research (and multiple slices). But hey, that's part of the fun!
How to decipher Toronto slang: It's a wild ride. Brace yourself for terms like "double-double" (coffee with two creams and two sugars) and "timmies" (Tim Hortons, a Canadian coffee institution).
How to experience the real 6ix: Explore beyond downtown! Each neighbourhood has its own charm, from the multicultural eats in Scarborough to the hipster havens of West Queen West.
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