30+Other Ways to Say “Bro”

Finding the right words to express warmth and build a connection can truly transform simple messages into something more meaningful.

While the term “bro” has long been used to convey a casual bond, it can sometimes fall short when you’re aiming to show a deeper sense of care, humor, or closeness.

Whether you’re texting a friend, checking in on a loved one, or just looking for new ways to show you care, choosing thoughtful alternatives can elevate your writing.

In this guide, we’ll explore 30+ fresh ways to say “bro” phrases that feel more personal and truly resonate with your audience.

What Does Bro Mean?

The term “bro” is a casual, colloquial shorthand for “brother,” often used to refer to a close friend or peer, regardless of actual relation. It’s commonly associated with informal male friendships but has expanded over time to express camaraderie, support, or playful banter among people of any gender. Bro typically implies a relaxed, friendly tone and signals a sense of mutual trust or shared experience.

When to Use Bro

“Bro” fits best in informal conversations such as texting a friend, joking with someone you’re close to, or expressing laid-back encouragement. It’s frequently heard in social settings, sports culture, online chats, and youth-oriented spaces. Use it when you’re aiming for a vibe of casual connection, light humor, or relatable slang. However, it’s important to know your audience—what feels warm to one person might feel impersonal or even off-putting to another.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say Bro?

In most professional or formal contexts, “bro” is generally considered too casual and may be seen as unprofessional or overly familiar. When writing emails, reports, or public messages, it’s best to choose more polite and context-appropriate alternatives such as “teammate,” “colleague,” “friend,” or even someone’s name. These options maintain clarity, show respect, and still preserve a sense of care and connection without sacrificing professionalism.

By choosing words with more nuance, you ensure your tone matches the setting—whether casual, conversational, or corporate.

1. Buddy

Meaning: Implies friendly familiarity and mutual trust.
Definition: A casual term for a close friend or companion.
Tone: Warm and approachable.
Example: “Hey buddy, I really appreciated your help with the project.”
Explanation: “Buddy” makes communication sound personal and heartfelt, especially when expressing gratitude or encouragement.
Purpose and Personalization: Use “buddy” to create a welcoming tone. Writers can adjust it to “dear buddy” for more warmth or just “buddy” for an easygoing style.

2. Pal

Meaning: Suggests a fun, informal friendship.
Definition: A lighthearted synonym for friend.
Tone: Cheerful and informal.
Example: “Thanks, pal, for covering my shift yesterday.”
Explanation: It adds a nostalgic, upbeat feel to messages, ideal for casual writing.
Purpose and Personalization: Works well in storytelling or conversational writing. Use sparingly in professional writing unless the tone allows for familiarity.

3. Mate

Meaning: Commonly used in British or Australian English to refer to a close friend.
Definition: A companion or friend, especially in informal settings.
Tone: Friendly and inclusive.
Example: “Cheers, mate! That was a solid suggestion.”
Explanation: “Mate” offers a regional flair that makes your tone feel authentic.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for writing with cultural nuance. Adjust based on your audience’s regional preferences.

4. Champ

Meaning: Communicates admiration or encouragement.
Definition: A slang term meaning champion; often used to uplift someone.
Tone: Supportive and upbeat.
Example: “You did great, champ—keep pushing forward.”
Explanation: It makes the recipient feel recognized and empowered.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for motivational writing. Add personal flair with “my little champ” or “real champ” depending on context.

5. Dude

Meaning: Casual and expressive of shared rapport.
Definition: Informal term for a person, usually a male friend.
Tone: Relaxed and cool.
Example: “Dude, that presentation was next-level!”
Explanation: It helps build an easy, relatable tone between peers.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for youth-oriented writing. Use with discretion in professional settings.

6. Friend

Meaning: Emphasizes a connection based on trust and loyalty.
Definition: Someone with whom one shares mutual affection and support.
Tone: Sincere and neutral.
Example: “Dear friend, I value your honest feedback.”
Explanation: Universally understood and emotionally grounding.
Purpose and Personalization: Useful in both personal and professional writing. Add warmth with “cherished friend” or keep it simple for broad appeal.

7. Comrade

Meaning: Evokes unity, especially in shared challenges or causes.
Definition: A companion, particularly in a shared experience.
Tone: Loyal and collective.
Example: “To my comrade in creative chaos, thanks for sticking by.”
Explanation: “Comrade” conveys deep bonds formed through shared endeavors.
Purpose and Personalization: Excellent for reflective or mission-driven writing. Personalize by adding context, e.g., “writing comrade.”

8. Partner

Meaning: Indicates collaboration and equality.
Definition: Someone you work with or share responsibilities with.
Tone: Respectful and cooperative.
Example: “I couldn’t have done this without my partner in design.”
Explanation: It conveys trust and a mutual contribution.
Purpose and Personalization: Works well in business or project-based writing. Adjust to “creative partner” or “life partner” as needed.

9. Homie

Meaning: Conveys closeness rooted in shared background or culture.
Definition: A slang term for a loyal friend from one’s community.
Tone: Familiar and loyal.
Example: “Homie, you’ve always got my back.”
Explanation: Builds authenticity and depth in personal tone.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for informal or culturally expressive writing. Use only when it aligns with your voice.

10. Brother

Meaning: Suggests a bond as strong as family.
Definition: A male sibling or someone as close as one.
Tone: Deep and supportive.
Example: “You’re not just a friend—you’re a brother to me.”
Explanation: It adds emotional weight and depth.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for heartfelt writing. Use “brother-in-arms” for shared struggles or “big brother” for guidance.

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11. Ace

Meaning: Highlights excellence and a go-to person.
Definition: A person who excels at something or is a trusted ally.
Tone: Confident and appreciative.
Example: “He’s my ace when it comes to solving tech issues.”
Explanation: Implies trust and reliability in a fun way.
Purpose and Personalization: Good for spotlighting someone’s strengths. Try “my ace in this mission” for added impact.

12. Chief

Meaning: A casual nod of respect or leadership.
Definition: A slang greeting or term for someone in charge.
Tone: Confident and informal.
Example: “Thanks for the assist, chief.”
Explanation: Adds swagger and a casual hierarchy of respect.
Purpose and Personalization: Works well in lighthearted settings. Personalize to fit tone—“my chief editor,” for instance.

13. Amigo

Meaning: Brings cultural warmth and friendliness.
Definition: Spanish for “friend.”
Tone: Warm and culturally expressive.
Example: “Hey, amigo, you’re the real MVP today.”
Explanation: Adds a global, friendly vibe.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for adding a multicultural touch. Adjust to suit the cultural or narrative setting.

14. Fam

Meaning: Implies strong familial bonds within friendships.
Definition: Slang for “family”; used to refer to close friends.
Tone: Intimate and trendy.
Example: “No worries, fam—we’ve got this together.”
Explanation: Evokes a sense of belonging and tight-knit community.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for contemporary or urban writing styles. Keep tone inclusive and personal.

15. Compadre

Meaning: A cultural expression of brotherhood and loyalty.
Definition: A close friend or companion, often used in Spanish-speaking cultures.
Tone: Loyal and warm.
Example: “You’ve always been my trusted compadre in life.”
Explanation: Adds charm and depth to your message.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for cultural storytelling or reflective writing. Use with intentionality to preserve authenticity.

16. Soulmate

Meaning: Describes a profound emotional and spiritual connection.
Definition: A person with whom one shares a deep bond or affinity.
Tone: Intimate and romantic.
Example: “You’re more than a friend—you’re my soulmate.”
Explanation: Powerful in deep, heartfelt expressions.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for love letters, poems, or reflective prose. Adjust to emotional depth as needed.

17. BFF

Meaning: A playful term for a lifelong best friend.
Definition: Acronym for “Best Friend Forever.”
Tone: Cheerful and affectionate.
Example: “Can’t wait to hang out with my BFF this weekend!”
Explanation: Lightens the tone while expressing deep friendship.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for informal writing or youth-focused content. Can be adapted to “childhood BFF” or “travel BFF.”

18. Sidekick

Meaning: A reliable companion often by your side in adventures.
Definition: A close friend who supports the main character or person.
Tone: Playful and loyal.
Example: “Every writer needs a sidekick to brainstorm with.”
Explanation: Implies companionship and fun collaboration.
Purpose and Personalization: Great in humorous or team-based writing. Adjust to context—“creative sidekick,” “editorial sidekick.”

19. Confidant

Meaning: A trusted person who knows your private thoughts.
Definition: Someone with whom one shares secrets and trust.
Tone: Trusting and deep.
Example: “She’s my confidant when I need honest advice.”
Explanation: Adds emotional maturity and trustworthiness.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in serious or reflective writing. Personalize with “loyal confidant” or “wise confidant.”

20. Bestie

Meaning: An affectionate and playful way to say best friend.
Definition: Informal term for one’s closest friend.
Tone: Sweet and casual.
Example: “Had the best weekend with my bestie!”
Explanation: Adds personality and a sense of joy.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for lifestyle writing. Can be adapted to fit tone—“fashion bestie,” “brunch bestie.”

See Also: Other Ways to Say “I Love You”

21. Wingman

Meaning: Describes someone who supports you, especially socially.
Definition: A supportive friend who helps in social or romantic situations.
Tone: Loyal and humorous.
Example: “He’s the ultimate wingman at networking events.”
Explanation: Shows dependable social support.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for storytelling or anecdotes. Personalize to fit the situation.

22. Mentor

Meaning: Someone who offers guidance, experience, and wisdom.
Definition: A trusted advisor who nurtures growth.
Tone: Respectful and nurturing.
Example: “My mentor always encourages me to push boundaries.”
Explanation: Shows value and respect for knowledge-sharing.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for professional or growth-focused writing. Adjust with terms like “writing mentor” or “career mentor.”

23. Legend

Meaning: Highlights admiration and respect for someone’s impact.
Definition: A person widely admired for their achievements or traits.
Tone: Reverent and admiring.
Example: “You handled that like a true legend.”
Explanation: Conveys lasting influence or heroic status.
Purpose and Personalization: Adds flair to praise. Modify as “quiet legend” or “unsung legend.”

24. Rockstar

Meaning: Refers to someone outstanding or inspiring.
Definition: A metaphor for someone who excels in their field or task.
Tone: Celebratory and energetic.
Example: “You’re the rockstar of this team!”
Explanation: Brings enthusiasm and modern positivity.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in team communication or light praise. Adjust with context—“coding rockstar,” “design rockstar.”

25. Ninja

Meaning: Celebrates someone’s skill and stealth in tasks.
Definition: A slang term for someone who’s exceptionally capable.
Tone: Fun and skill-focused.
Example: “She’s a social media ninja—quiet but powerful.”
Explanation: Adds modern flair and competence.
Purpose and Personalization: Works best in creative writing or casual business language. Tailor it to the skill being praised.

26. Hero

Meaning: Someone admired for courage, achievements, or noble qualities.
Definition: A person who stands out through acts of bravery or leadership.
Tone: Empowering and respectful.
Example: “To me, you’ve always been a quiet hero.”
Explanation: Adds emotional weight and high regard.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for inspirational writing. Personalize with “everyday hero” or “unsung hero.”

27. Teammate

Meaning: Highlights shared efforts and collaboration.
Definition: Someone you work closely with toward a common goal.
Tone: Collaborative and inclusive.
Example: “A big thanks to my teammate for handling the details.”
Explanation: Reinforces teamwork and joint success.
Purpose and Personalization: Excellent for professional tone. Adapt to “project teammate” or “creative teammate.”

28. Sibling

Meaning: Indicates deep emotional closeness like that of family.
Definition: A brother or sister, biologically or symbolically.
Tone: Intimate and loyal.
Example: “You’ve been a sibling to me through thick and thin.”
Explanation: Deepens the emotional context.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for personal essays. Use “chosen sibling” or “spiritual sibling” for nuance.

29. Fellow

Meaning: Indicates someone of shared status, experience, or interest.
Definition: A person in the same group, activity, or field.
Tone: Formal and equal.
Example: “Fellow writers, let’s support each other.”
Explanation: Creates unity and collective identity.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for addressing groups. Use “fellow creatives” or “fellow dreamers.”

30. Chum

Meaning: An old-fashioned but endearing term for a friend.
Definition: A close companion.
Tone: Nostalgic and friendly.
Example: “We’ve been chums since college days.”
Explanation: Adds character and warmth.
Purpose and Personalization: Good for storytelling or reflective tone. Use when evoking familiarity.

31. Ride-or-Die

Meaning: Describes unwavering loyalty and devotion.
Definition: A person who stands by you no matter what.
Tone: Intense and committed.
Example: “You’ve always been my ride-or-die through life’s chaos.”
Explanation: Amplifies emotional depth and loyalty.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in deep personal narratives. Personalize based on relationship context.

See Also: Other Ways to Say “Thank You For Your Support”

32. Brosef

Meaning: A playful twist on “bro” with added humor.
Definition: Slang term combining “bro” and “Joseph,” often used jokingly.
Tone: Humorous and informal.
Example: “Yo, brosef, let’s catch up soon!”
Explanation: Lightens tone while maintaining camaraderie.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for fun or humorous writing. Use when tone is clearly casual.

33. Bruh

Meaning: Internet slang version of “bro,” often used for dramatic or ironic effect.
Definition: Slang term showing disbelief, emotion, or casual bond.
Tone: Informal and expressive.
Example: “Bruh, did you see that ending?”
Explanation: Reflects digital culture and youth language.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for digital content. Use sparingly for impact.

34. Squadmate

Meaning: Refers to someone from your core group or team.
Definition: A person who’s part of your group or squad.
Tone: Team-oriented and cool.
Example: “Me and my squadmates always stick together.”
Explanation: Promotes unity and coolness.
Purpose and Personalization: Useful in modern, casual writing. Customize for gaming or social groups.

35. Day-Oner

Meaning: Signifies someone who has been with you since the beginning.
Definition: A friend or supporter from the earliest stage.
Tone: Loyal and appreciative.
Example: “You’ve been my day-oner since the start.”
Explanation: Highlights long-term loyalty and history.
Purpose and Personalization: Perfect for emotional or reflective writing. Add context for clarity—“career day-oner,” “ride-or-die day-oner.”

Conclusion

Choosing thoughtful alternatives to “bro” isn’t just about switching words it’s about deepening connection, tone, and intent. Whether you’re writing a blog post, a personal message, or even casual dialogue, the right phrasing adds warmth and authenticity. This guide isn’t just a list it’s your toolkit for building better bonds through language.

As a writer who values genuine communication, I hope these bold, expressive options help you craft messages that feel more personal, inclusive, and meaningful. So go ahead infuse your writing with personality and heart. Try out these friendly alternatives to “bro” and elevate your voice today.