Just out of curiosity (total noobie speaking here!); are the terms 妈妈 and 爸爸 terms of endearment (like saying "Mommy" and "Daddy") or do they literally mean "father" and "mother"? For instance, in a formal setting, could I ask about someone's mother with this word, or would it be like asking "How's your mummy?"
Also, can 口 be used to refer (counting) to very close friends (such as a godfather) or is that considered disrespectful in that context?
Posted on: How many family members do you have?
December 11, 2010 at 1:26 AMJust out of curiosity (total noobie speaking here!); are the terms 妈妈 and 爸爸 terms of endearment (like saying "Mommy" and "Daddy") or do they literally mean "father" and "mother"? For instance, in a formal setting, could I ask about someone's mother with this word, or would it be like asking "How's your mummy?"
Also, can 口 be used to refer (counting) to very close friends (such as a godfather) or is that considered disrespectful in that context?
谢谢 for the podcasts, Ken and Jenny! You rock!
~ Jordan