bro: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
High (informal contexts)Very informal, casual, slang. Used primarily in spoken language, text messaging, and social media. Often associated with younger speakers.
Quick answer
What does “bro” mean?
an informal, friendly term of address for a male friend or peer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
an informal, friendly term of address for a male friend or peer; short for 'brother'.
Used to refer to any male, often implying camaraderie, shared experience, or membership in a particular (often youthful or casual) social group. Can sometimes be used ironically or to refer to a stereotypical 'bro' culture.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Equally common in both varieties, but strongly associated with American youth culture and 'frat' or 'bro' culture. In the UK, it's widely adopted but may retain a slight perception as an Americanism.
Connotations
US: Strongly linked to 'bro culture' (frat boys, gym culture, certain laid-back attitudes). UK: Slightly less culturally loaded, but the 'bro' stereotype is widely understood.
Frequency
Very high frequency in informal US speech. High in UK informal speech, but alternatives like 'mate' or 'pal' are also very common.
Grammar
How to Use “bro” in a Sentence
[VOCATIVE] Hey, bro, [STATEMENT].[GREETING] What's up, bro?[ADDRESS] Listen, bro, I need a favour.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bro” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- He's not just a friend, he's my bro.
- A couple of bros were playing football in the park.
American English
- He's my bro from college.
- The bros are coming over to watch the game.
vocative_interjection
British English
- Bro, you will not believe what just happened.
- Cheers, bro!
American English
- Bro, that's insane!
- Nice shot, bro!
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate in formal business settings. Might be used very cautiously between close colleagues in an informal startup environment.
Academic
Generally inappropriate, except perhaps in very casual conversations between students.
Everyday
Extremely common in informal conversations among peers, especially young men.
Technical
Not used in technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bro”
- Using 'bro' in formal writing or speech.
- Overusing 'bro' to the point of annoyance.
- Using 'bro' with someone who is not a peer or is significantly older/younger, unless the relationship is very casual.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Occasionally, especially in plural ('hey bros') to address a mixed-gender group, or ironically between close female friends who adopt the term. However, 'sis' is the more common gendered counterpart.
Not inherently, but it can be if used with someone who expects more formality or doesn't share that level of familiarity. Its perception depends entirely on context and relationship.
'Bro' implies a closer, almost familial bond. 'Dude' (US) is a more general, casual term for any male. 'Mate' (UK/AU) is a very common, general term for a friend or acquaintance. 'Bro' carries more specific cultural connotations.
In kind, if you're comfortable with the informality. You can simply respond with 'hey', 'what's up', or call them 'bro' back. If it feels too informal, a neutral 'hello' or their name is fine.
an informal, friendly term of address for a male friend or peer.
Bro is usually very informal, casual, slang. used primarily in spoken language, text messaging, and social media. often associated with younger speakers. in register.
Bro: in British English it is pronounced /brəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /broʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Bro code (an informal set of rules governing loyalty between male friends)”
- “Bros before hoes (vulgar slang prioritizing male friends over romantic pursuits)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'BRO' as short for 'BROther' – it's for your closest mates, like family.
Conceptual Metaphor
FRIENDSHIP IS KINSHIP (A close friend is conceptualized as a brother).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would using 'bro' be LEAST appropriate?