papá
neutral, Mexico
In Mexico most people say papá for dad. In casual family speech some shorten it to apá, and children may say papi. It is also called mi papá.
Meaning: a father (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| papá | neutral, Mexico |
| apá | informal, short, Mexico |
| papi | affectionate |
| mi papá | my dad |
You say mi papá for "my dad" and call him papá when you speak to him. Apá is informal and heard among families, especially in the north and center.
How do you pronounce it?
The stress falls on the last syllable: pa-PÁ.
Did you know?
- In Mexico the word papá is also used for the greeting Feliz Día del Padre and Father's Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June.
Examples in context
- Mi papá trabaja mucho.My dad works a lot.
- Apá, ¿me prestas el carro?Dad, can I borrow the car?
- Papá, te quiero.Dad, I love you.
Example conversation
Rodrigo asks his father Don Arturo for help in the garage of their home in Hermosillo.
- RodrigoPapá, ¿me ayudas con la bici?Dad, will you help me with the bike?
- Don ArturoSí, hijo, pásame la llave.Yes, son, pass me the wrench.
- RodrigoAquí la tienes.Here you go.
