mamá
everyday, neutral
In Argentina mamá is the normal word for mom. Children also say mami, and vieja is a casual and affectionate way to refer to your mother.
Meaning: mother (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| mamá | everyday, neutral |
| mami | affectionate |
| vieja | casual, Argentina |
Speakers say mi vieja when talking about their mother to friends, and it is meant fondly. You would not call a stranger's mother vieja.
Which one should you use?
Madre is the formal word and sounds serious, as in official forms or ceremonies.
How does it change in a sentence?
The stress in mamá falls on the last syllable. Adults in Argentina keep using mamá all their lives.
Did you know?
- Vieja literally means "old" but is used with warmth for parents. Fathers are called viejo in the same way.
Examples in context
- Mi vieja cocina muy bien.My mom cooks very well.
- Te quiero, mami.I love you, mommy.
Example conversation
Joaquín talks to his mother Graciela after school in Tucumán.
- JoaquínMamá, ya llegué.Mom, I am home.
- Graciela¿Cómo te fue en el colegio?How was school?
- JoaquínBien. ¿Qué hay para comer?Good. What is there to eat?
