father vs. dad vs. daddy
– B2-C1 (intermediate to advanced) –
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Vocabulary can be challenging sometimes, especially when there are words that cannot directly translate from one language to another. This is usually due to difference in culture. The words, “father,” “dad” and “daddy” are great examples of this. This is why:
DEFINITIONS
In North American English, “father,” “dad” and “daddy” typically mean:
father
the formal way of referring to a male parent
NOTE: this word is more often used by adults compared to children and teenagers; if this word is used in an informal context, then it typically indicates a distant relationship between a child and a male parent, often in the form of showing disrespect
dad
the informal way of referring to a male parent
NOTE: this word is informally used by people of all ages when they are wanting to show affection or respect; children typically use this word all the time, regardless of a situation’s formality
daddy
the way a child under the age of approximately 7 years old refers to a male parent
NOTE: adults may only use this word when speaking directly to children below the approximate age of 7, otherwise the following definition is often assumed:
(NA; slang) an attractive and/or dominant (potential) sexual partner, especially a male one
EXAMPLES
“American film often depicts women as caring mothers and men as absent fathers. However, this cliché can be harmful, as it can potentially perpetuate gender inequality and toxic masculinity.”
“Growing up, most of her friends had divorced parents, so they usually had two dads and two moms: biological parents and step-parents.”
An adult doctor speaks to another adult: “Congratulations! You’re the father of a baby boy!”
An adult speaks to the baby: “Welcome to the world, little guy! I’m your daddy. It’s nice to meet you.”
An adult speaks to another adult: “You are too cute, love! You’re gonna make a great dad.”
“I don’t know what it is about L.A., but it is just full of daddies. Where I’m from, there aren’t that many attractive men.”
Have you ever made the mistake of using one of these words incorrectly? What situation did you use it in? Let me know in the comments below.