hola, mi pequeño amigo
/ˈola mi peˈkeɲo aˈmiɡo/word by word
The English phrase "hello, my little friend" is translated into Spanish as hola, mi pequeño amigo.
This phrase is a friendly greeting used when speaking to a child or a small pet.
What does it mean word for word?
The word pequeño means "little" or "small".
How does it change in a sentence?
If the child or pet being addressed is female, you must change the adjectives to the feminine forms hola, mi pequeña amiga.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈola mi peˈkeɲo aˈmiɡo/
Did you know?
- Some linguists believe hola may be related to the Arabic expression wal-lāh, which means 'really?' or 'by God!'
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, mi pequeño amigo might be replaced by the word chiquito, which adds an extra layer of affection.
- While amigo is used here for a child, in many Spanish-speaking countries, calling a stranger amigo can sometimes be perceived as overly familiar or slightly suspicious.
Examples in context
- Hola, mi chiquitoHello, my little one
Example conversation
Sofía greets Javier's young son.
- SofíaHola, mi pequeño amigo, ¿quieres un dulce?Hello, my little friend, do you want a candy?
- Javier¡Sí, por favor!Yes, please!
- SofíaAquí tienes, pequeño.Here you go, little one.
- JavierGracias, Sofía.Thank you, Sofía.
