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Fraserpan Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

"buddy" and "dude"...

Could anyone tell me in what situation I can call someone "buddy" ? Just between friends, or what else? How about "dude"?

Thanks
  

Top answer

"Buddy" is an informal way to refer to a friend. " "Buddy" can also be used in an ironic or sarcastic way to express hostility. "Listen, buddy if you're looking for a fight, just step outside," one drunk might say to another drunk who is NOT one of his drinking buddies.

— Rocketeer

  • "Buddy" is an informal way to refer to a friend.
  • " "Buddy" can also be used in an ironic or sarcastic way to express hostility.
  • "Listen, buddy if you're looking for a fight, just step outside," one drunk might say to another drunk who is NOT one of his drinking buddies.
  • "Best buds" to describe one's closest friends is commonly used by young men and women.
  • "Dude," also "duuuuuuuuuude," said in a leisurely California accent is used much the same way buddy is but it is also used simply to refer to any man.
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6 Answers
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"Buddy" is an informal way to refer to a friend. I might refer to my best friend Mike as "my buddy Mike." Americans use "buddy" in much the same way the English use "mate."

"He goes out with his girlfriend on Saturday nights but on Friday he usually hangs out with his drinking buddies."

"Buddy" can also be used in an ironic or sarcastic way to express hostility. "Listen, budd
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a bit like, guys, we dont use them much in the UK - or maybe use them to sound a bit playful

- tho Buddy has taken on a life in terms of care for people with AIDS - their volunteers/ supporters are often called Buddies, presumably following an American model?
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I was also told that "dude" is often used in Australian English, especially among surfers.
(Remember the turtle in "Finding Nemo" ***)
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Yes, "dude" is used extensively by American surfers too and it's my guess that its current vogue began with California surfers.

Mr. Rocket a tad OTT - hitchhiker.
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Can dude also mean "you silly" in a friendly tone? For example I have heard things like the following,

"You should have let me know first, dude!" or "You see! I have told you many times not to do that, dude!"

I am guessing "dude" here means "you silly" in sort of friendly way. Am I right?

Thanks
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Hi,

Jamiec, I agree with you.

I just want to add that I think 'buddy' seems slightly old-fashioned to me. I don't think of it as a word that young people would use a lot, at least where I live.

Clive
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