From ‘Insult’ to ‘Endearment’: Understanding the Fascinating Use of Nicknames in Mexico

<p>Cultural differences can be fascinating, and the contrasts between Indonesia and Mexico are no exception. While some similarities exist between these two countries, such as the friendly nature of the people, there are also notable differences that are unique to Mexico. One of these differences is the way in which people use endearing nicknames to refer to their loved ones and acquaintances. As someone who grew up in a different culture, I found this practice both intriguing and perplexing.</p> <p>I started to notice some things are only in Mexico, when my neighbor so comfortably calls me &ldquo;beautiful&rdquo; every time we speak.&nbsp;<em>Hello, how are you,</em>G<em>uapa? Where have you been, Guapa?</em>&nbsp;Or the waiters calling me &ldquo;Reynita&rdquo; or &ldquo;Querida&rdquo;&nbsp;<em>&ldquo;Qu&eacute; quiere, querida?&rdquo;</em>Initially, I was taken aback by this and wondered if they were trying to flirt with me. In fact, it is common for Mexican to use endearing nicknames, such as&nbsp;<em>&ldquo;Guapa,&rdquo;</em>&nbsp;<em>&ldquo;Cari&ntilde;o,&rdquo;</em>&nbsp;<em>&ldquo;Amor,&rdquo;</em>&nbsp;and others, as a sign of love and familiarity. And I realized that this was just their way of showing affection and respect towards me.</p> <p><a href="https://roamingwithcindy.medium.com/from-insult-to-endearment-understanding-the-fascinating-use-of-nicknames-in-mexico-6f01cd86cb42"><strong>Read More</strong></a></p>