-kun
- Thread starter Inu Yasha
- Start date
- 6 Mar 2003
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It's a familiar term applied (normally but not always) to guys. It's often used within members of the same group (like members of the same team at work for example). -san is more polite but implies more distance socially. -kun is usually used for younger guys.
- 6 Mar 2003
- 9,318
- 9,444
it seems to me that when -kun is applied to women it is usually to indicate that they are "one of the guys"; like maybe a member of a work group. I have the impression it's a sign of acceptance. Perhaps there is a joking element in there as well.
When -chan is applied to guys there does seem to be more humor behind it. It can also be a carry forward of a childhood nickname into adulthood. Pre-school age boys are commonly addressed with -chan (usually a contraction of their first name plus -chan, e.g. daisuke might become dai-chan)..
When -chan is applied to guys there does seem to be more humor behind it. It can also be a carry forward of a childhood nickname into adulthood. Pre-school age boys are commonly addressed with -chan (usually a contraction of their first name plus -chan, e.g. daisuke might become dai-chan)..
neko_girl22
先輩
- 14 May 2003
- 525
- 11
I'm not sure what you mean when you say it's used in humour?I have often heard -chan used with guys. Of course it is used by people very close to them. Actually I call my husband A-chan more often than his full name, and he doesn't mind at all. personally I see it as a sign of closeness. Maybe it's another kanto / kansai thing?
