Get the latest tech news
Calling Strangers Uncle and Auntie
Cultures can be categorized across many axes, and one of them is whether you can call an older male stranger uncle or female stranger auntie. For example, calling a shopkeeper uncle might be sympathetic in Singapore, whereas doing the same in Germany (Onkel) might get a negative reaction: “I’m not your uncle”.
In Urdu or other local languages, you might hear “चाचा ( chacha)” / “چچی ( chachi)” or “ماما ( mama)” / “مامی ( mami)” depending on whether it’s paternal or maternal in origin—often extended to unrelated elders as a sign of respect. Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania (Swahili-speaking regions) “Mjomba” (uncle) or “Shangazi” (aunt) might be heard, but more often you’ll hear people simply use English “Uncle/Auntie” in urban areas. Other African Nations From Ethiopia and Eritrea (where you might hear “Aboye” or “Emaye,” though these are more parental) to francophone Africa (where “tonton” / “tata” in French can be used for older people), the practice is widespread.
Or read this on Hacker News