student asking question

Is there any difference in using "old man" and using "father"? Why did he use "old man" instead of "father"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

That's a great question. The term "old man" is kind of endearing here. Most people don't just say "old man", it's usually "MY old man", as Chris Pratt does in the clip. Also, "old" in this context may not even be referring to age. It can also mean long-standing, and calling your dad "old man" means that you've spent a lot of time together with him. That's why we have other similar phrases such as "old buddy", old pal" and "old friend". Ex: Oh, my old man and I have a great relationship. Ex: Yes, she's an old friend from school.

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