Don't Take These Translations To Heart
Some affectionate nicknames sound totally sweet in their home language, but once you translate them word for word to English, things can get weird really quickly. That weirdness, however, is exactly the point: the literal meaning often isn’t what matters, it's how it's said, meant, and felt. Here are just 20 unique terms of endearment people use around the world.
1. French: Mon petit chou (“my little cabbage”)
This everyday endearment used by French speakers certainly has a strange translation, but it's really a sweet and cozy term of endearment rather than an odd one. Sure, it translates to "my little cabbage" in English, which doesn't sound romantic in the slightest, but really, the intent comes out more like "sweetheart" or "darling."
2. French: Ma puce (“my flea”)
Another bizarre French translation that's completely normal in the country, ma puce is a common term of endearment that translates to "my flea" in English. It might sound like a bold choice for English speakers, but in France, it's used for children or partners to describe someone small, cute, and precious.
3. Italian: Patatino/Patatina (“little potato”)
Who knew calling someone a vegetable could sound so affectionate? Over in Italy, calling someone a "little potato" is a real term of endearment, especially in casual relationships. It can be romantic, or it can be the kind of nickname an older relative uses without thinking twice. If you want to sound natural, just make sure to say it with a light tone rather than making it a joke.
4. German: Schnecke (“snail”)
“Snail” doesn’t sound flattering in English, but in German it can be a fond nickname for a partner. If you’re the type who overanalyzes words, you might hesitate, but the term is meant to display simple affection, nothing more, nothing less.. It’s informal and best used when you’re already close.
5. Russian: Zaychik (“little hare”)
This adorable term of endearment is used the same way English speakers call someone close "little bunny." At first, it might seem a little weird referring to an animal, but people in Russia will use it for partners or children. After all, it's got a sweet, gentle, and adorable meaning to it that signifies closeness.
6. Arabic (various dialects): Ya kebdi (“my liver”)
In some Arabic-speaking communities, “my liver” is a heartfelt way to address someone you love. It sounds strange when translated to English, but it’s meant to be deeply caring. You’d usually reserve it for family, close partners, or someone you’re genuinely attached to. If you hear it, you’re not being teased, even if the wording surprises you.
7. Thai: Tua-eng (“yourself”)
Although tua-eng translates to "yourself" in English, when used between a couple, it's an affectionate way to voice how close and personal your relationship is. In Thai, it sounds sweet and slightly playful, which is perfect for loving partners.
8. Spanish (Latin America): Mi gordito/Mi gordita (“my little chubby one”)
Although this Spanish term is meant to be loving, it's hard to deny that it sounds risky in English. In many places it’s used warmly for partners or kids, but still, you shouldn’t assume it’s welcome across cultures or individuals. If you’re going to use it, make sure the person actually likes that style of nickname and understands its sweet meaning.
9. Brazilian Portuguese: Chuchuzinho (“little chayote”)
Yes, it’s a vegetable nickname, and yes, it’s said with a straight face. Similar to the way Italians use the word potato as means of affection, "little chayote" has the same effect in Brazilian Portuguese. If you say it with good intentions, it comes off very charming and lovely.
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10. Dutch: Dropje (“little licorice”)
It makes sense to use candy as a term of endearment given that they're both meant to be sweet, but licorice? That's certainly an interesting choice! In Dutch, "drop” is licorice, and adding the “-je” makes it small and cute. It’s the kind of nickname you’d use casually, not in a serious declaration of love.
11. Czech: Broučku (“little beetle”)
Beetles definitely aren't cute, but don't worry, that's just the translation, not the actual intention of this Czech term of endearment. "Little beetle" is often used for children, but couples can use it too, especially in a soft tone. It's a bit weird, but really it's the same thing as calling someone your "little bug" or "ladybug."
12. Japanese: Tamago Gata no Kao (“an egg with eyes”)
Definitely don't pay too close attention to the translation with this one. "An egg with eyes" definitely doesn't sound romantic or cute, but in Japan, it's really a huge compliment women love being told. It simply means they have an oval-shaped face which is considered beautiful in the country.
13. Hungarian: Kis bogaram (“little bug”)
Speaking of bugs, there are a few on this list from different countries! Hungarian has a fondness for affectionate diminutives, and “little bug” is one of the stranger ones in translation. It’s typically used with someone you’re close to, often in a warm, teasing tone. If you hear it, don't worry, it’s meant to be endearing, not creepy.
14. Mandarin Chinese: Bǎobèi (“treasure”)
The direct meaning of this Chinese term of endearment is “treasure”, which can sound a bit intense in English. But in Chinese, it’s widely used for kids and romantic partners without needing a special occasion. If anything, it's an everyday word you can use for a loved one! It usually signals closeness and comfort.
15. Tagalog: Mahal (“love,” and also “expensive”)
This one tends to get lots of attention because the same word can mean “love” and “expensive,” depending on how it’s used. As an endearment, it’s sincere, and it’s common in romantic contexts, however, you shouldn’t treat the double meaning as a joke unless the person you’re with already does.
16. Irish (Gaeilge): A stór (“my treasure”)
The English translation of this Irish endearment is “my treasure,” which can feel unexpectedly dramatic to some. But in Irish usage, it’s a traditional term of affection that can be said quietly and naturally. It's nothing too extreme! People use it for loved ones, including children and partners.
17. Chinese (Mandarin): Xiǎo zhū (“little pig”)
Calling someone “little pig” can be affectionate in Mandarin, especially between couples or toward kids. It’s often used in a lightly teasing way that still signals closeness. The tone matters a lot, because you don’t want it to sound like an insult. If you’re borrowing it, keep it for someone who already knows you mean well.
Hoi An and Da Nang Photographer on Unsplash
18. Greek: Koukla (“doll”)
A term of endearment often used toward women or daughters, calling someone "doll" in Greek is a loving phrase meant to express care. Just think of it as the English equivalent of "sweetie" or "darling." It's used in a way to describe someone who is very bright and charming.
19. Norwegian: Gullet (“the gold”)
The English translation is surprisingly literal, but if you really think about it, "gullet" has quite the sweet meaning. In a way, it's like calling someone precious or deeply important. Or in other words, it says that you value their presence as much as gold! It's the perfect way to sound loving without being overly mushy.
Hoi An and Da Nang Photographer on Unsplash
20. Polish: Żabko (“little frog”)
Being called "little bunny" definitely feels a bit more cute than "little frog," but in Poland, this is a genuinely affectionate term often used for children. It's definitely meant more for someone you know well, so don't throw it around casually.
