Different Ways to Say "Friend"

These ways to say friend can also be used if you forget someone's name. You will
probably use the following A LOT (which is why they're put first), so it's important to
know when to use them and the differences between them.

• Dude

When to use it: Can be used with males you know and even you don't know.
Usage Notes: Depending on the tone and context, it can also be used to express
dismay.
Example: "Yo dude, long time no see."

• Bro

When to use it: When talking to your brother or someone you feel really close to.
Variations: Brotha (short for brother) usually has a stronger context to being a brother
than bro.
Usage Notes: Short for brother. Originally bro was used when someone is close
enough to you that they feel like a brother, but lately has also be used to refer to any
male. A common phrase for someone who wants to get into a fight is to say to the other
person, "Come at me, bro." Obviously in the case, bro is just another way of saying a
male.
Example: "What's up, my brotha??"

• Homie

When to use it: When referring to a really good friend, usually in a greeting.
Variations: Homes, homeslice
Usage Notes: Can also be used to talk about how good a friend is, i.e. "Josh cooked
lunch for me, he's such a homie."
Example: "What's up homie?"

• Man

When to use it: Used in reference of someone's name.
Usage Notes: Can also be used to express dismay, based on context and tone of voice.
Pronunciation Tips: When used to express dismay, it is drawn out to "maaan."
Example: "Hey man, what's crackin'?

• Mate

When to use it: Used to refer to a good friend.
Usage Notes: A little informal. Is often used by people from the U.K. and Australia.
Example: "Hey, have you seen my mates?"

• Buddy

When to use it: Buddy is a playful way to call someone friend. Most often used when
first greeting someone or in a playful tone.
Variations: Bud
Usage Notes: Is also often used with dogs.
Example: "Hey what's up buddy?"

• Dawg

When to use it: In place of a good friend's name.
Usage Notes: Dawg has a gangster background, but has permeated mainstream society.
Pronunciation Tips: Is usually said with a ebonic accent and/or when people are
pretending to be gangster.
Example: "What up dawg??”

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