What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aunt
Example
My aunt is coming over for dinner tonight. [aunt: noun]
Example
I love spending time with my aunt. She always tells the best stories. [aunt: noun]
auntie
Example
Thank you, Auntie, for the lovely birthday gift! [auntie: noun]
Example
We're going to visit Auntie Jane this weekend. She's like family to us. [Auntie: proper noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Aunt is more commonly used than auntie in everyday language. Aunt is the standard term used to refer to a female family member, while auntie is more commonly used in informal or affectionate contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aunt and auntie?
While aunt is considered more formal and appropriate in professional or formal settings, auntie is more commonly used in casual or familiar situations. Aunt can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while auntie is generally more informal and affectionate.