What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bro
Example
Hey bro, what's up? [bro: noun]
Example
Thanks for helping me out, bro. [bro: noun]
mate
Example
Hey mate, how's it going? [mate: noun]
Example
Do you want to grab a drink after work, mate? [mate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bro is more commonly used than mate in everyday language, especially in American English. Bro is often associated with a younger generation and is popularized through media and pop culture. On the other hand, mate is more commonly used in British English and may sound more natural in that context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bro and mate?
Both bro and mate are informal terms, but mate is generally considered more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Bro, on the other hand, may carry a more casual and familiar tone, and is typically used in informal settings among friends or peers.