What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
father
Example
My father taught me how to ride a bike. [father: noun]
Example
He is a loving and caring father to his children. [father: adjective]
papa
Example
Papa always knows how to make me laugh. [papa: noun]
Example
He is a wise and kind papa to his grandchildren. [papa: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Father is more commonly used than papa in everyday language, especially in formal or official settings. Papa is more commonly used in informal or familial settings, or among younger generations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between father and papa?
Father is a more formal and traditional term that can be used in various formality levels, while papa is a more informal and modern term that is mostly used in casual or familial contexts.
