It is time for another GREAT MONTANA DEBATE! We already know that we here in Montana have different ways of explaining things. And, like it or not, we do actually have a noticeable accent. Yet, we describe things differently depending on which side of the state we are.

For example:

  • People in western Montana may call a prairie dog a "ground squirrel" or "gopher." While folks in eastern Montana will call them "whistling pigs."
  • There is a neverending debate between "crick" and "creek," which can vary depending on the region.
  • Do you have a "glove box" or a "jockey box" in your pickup?

Now, how do you describe that fizzy sugar water we all enjoy.

Is it "SODA" or "POP?"

The answer can vary no matter what part of the state you live in. As someone who grew up in central Montana, I feel like we used the term "POP" a lot more. Of course, I have found myself referring to it as "SODA" a lot more in western Montana.

According to a survey from foodandwine.com

On the West Coast and in New England, people are more likely to say "soda," whereas in some parts of the South, people say "Coke" or "Coca-Cola" to refer to any type of carbonated beverage. You’ll likely hear "pop" in states like North Dakota and Minnesota.

It is safe to assume that the closer to North Dakota a person lives, the better the chances you will hear the term "POP." Also, the further west a person lives in Montana, the better the chances we call it soda.

Don't even get me started on the people who use the word "Coke" for every soft drink.

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