What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fella
Example
Hey, fella, can you help me with this? [fella: noun]
Example
I met this fella at the bar last night. [fella: noun]
Example
Me and the fellas are going out for a drink tonight. [fellas: plural noun]
dude
Example
Hey, dude, what's up? [dude: noun]
Example
Dude, that concert was amazing! [dude: interjection]
Example
He's such a dude, always wearing the latest fashion. [dude: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dude is more commonly used than fella in everyday language, especially in American English. Dude has become a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while fella is less common and may sound outdated in some situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fella and dude?
Both fella and dude are informal terms that are not appropriate for formal situations. However, fella may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with British English and its neutral tone.