Being called "love", "mate" or "darling" by strangers
Informal Polite
What it really means
Shopkeepers, bus drivers and market sellers often call customers "love", "darling", "mate", "pet" or "duck" depending on the region. From strangers in these roles it's friendly, not flirting or disrespect. You don't need to use these words back — a normal "thanks" is fine.
Chinese explanation
店主、公交司机、市场摊主常称呼顾客"love"、"darling"、"mate"、"pet"或"duck"，叫法因地区而异。出自这类场合的陌生人之口，这是友好，不是调情也不是轻慢。你不必用同样的词回应——正常说声"thanks"就好。
Example conversation
A: There you go, love. Mind how you go.
B: Thanks very much!
A: See you later, darling.
A：给你，亲爱的。路上小心。
B：非常感谢！
A：回见，宝贝儿。
Go deeper
All Customs & Etiquette
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake