How thin is the line between trying to be friendly and being rude? Contemporaries love to come up with new terms to refer to cultural phenomena, but at the same time they forget the basic aspects of their native language. One of the unusual and ambiguous words is “guys”. It is used both in kindergartens and at youth parties. Even at meetings of veterans of armed conflicts, a familiar appeal sounds.
Where did the word come from
Initially, only “child” was known in Russian. Small children had fun and played, and adults, in order not to single out one person and draw the attention of the whole group, called them “guys” The word does not identify by gender, it fits:
- for boys;
- for mixed groups;
- for girls.
However, this is true only for the children's community! New meanings appeared in informal communication.
The words "boys" and "girls" will become the closest in meaning. Youth and middle-aged people can be called guys by a senior in position to dilute the officialenvironment, bring a bit of warmth to communication. Surprisingly subtle and appropriate use. For example, the head of the shop motivates his subordinates: “Let's push it, guys!” What word better conveys the fatherly care and hope of the leader? Other meanings have evolved from this:
- young people are analogous to "guys", but without reference to gender;
- comrades - colleagues or classmates;
- group of men.
There is no negative connotation here, although forms with diminutive suffixes are possible, which, when used with the appropriate intonation, take on the meaning of an insult. "Children" or "children", especially in relation to an adult and / or a stranger, acquires a derogatory connotation.
In order to eliminate misunderstandings or distribute responsibilities between men and women, they make up more complex appeals. Often you can see such "duets":
- guys and girls;
- boys and girls, etc.
The word itself does not change in any way, but in its pair you can read indications of the level of relations, the mood of the speaker, and other nuances necessary for the case. If you turn to everyone in a simple way: “Guys!” is the most polite form outside of official etiquette.
Can I say that today?
There are practically no restrictions. Within the same team or when communicating with an unfamiliar group of people, it is difficult to find friendlier analogues. Although, the word seems a little dated in the background.modern slang. And when interacting with adults, it sounds familiar, on a par with “old man” and “mother” when referring to the elderly. Correctly assess the atmosphere, the mood of others, and then you will certainly be able to arrange the guys for a productive dialogue!
