Aunty vs. Aunt: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 2, 2023
"Aunty" and "Aunt" both refer to the sister of one's parent or the wife of one's uncle, but "Aunty" is a more informal and affectionate term, while "Aunt" is more formal.
Key Differences
"Aunty" and "Aunt" both refer to a relative, specifically the sister of a parent or the wife of an uncle. However, "Aunty" is generally seen as a more informal and affectionate term.
In different cultural contexts, "Aunty" might be used more broadly to refer to a woman of the older generation in a community. "Aunt," on the other hand, usually sticks more closely to the biological or legal relationship.
Grammatically, both "Aunty" and "Aunt" function as nouns. They can serve as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence, yet "Aunty" is more colloquial.
In written language, "Aunt" is more commonly used in official or formal documents. "Aunty," conversely, is more often found in personal correspondence or casual writing.
Both "Aunty" and "Aunt" can appear with or without a name following them (e.g., Aunt Jane or Aunty Jane). However, "Aunty" is more likely to be used with a name when speaking to children, to add a layer of warmth.
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Comparison Chart
Formality
Informal
Formal
Usage Context
Casual, affectionate
Official, neutral
Grammatical Function
Noun
Noun
Cultural Adaptability
Varies by culture
More standardized
Appears in Formal Docs
Less Likely
More Likely
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Aunty and Aunt Definitions
Aunty
Elder in Community
We listened to Aunty.
Aunt
Neutral Term
Aunt Jane is my dad's sister.
Aunty
Term of Endearment
Aunty hugged me tight.
Aunt
Standard Use
Aunt Emily wrote a book.
Aunty
Casual Reference
Aunty made cookies.
Aunt
Formal Address
Aunt Williams is a doctor.
Aunty
Colloquial Use
Aunty is a good storyteller.
Aunt
Biological Relative
I talked to Aunt Susan.
Aunty
Informal Relative
I visited Aunty Mary.
Aunt
Legal Relative
She became my aunt through marriage.
Aunty
Aunt.
Aunt
The sister of one's father or mother.
Aunty
Alternative spelling of auntie
Aunt
The wife of a sibling of one's mother or father.
Aunty
The sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle
Aunt
Used as a form of address for an older woman, especially by children.
Aunt
The sister or sister-in-law of one’s parent.
Aunt
The female cousin or cousin-in-law of one’s parent.
Aunt
(affectionate) A woman of an older generation than oneself, especially a friend of one's parents, by means of fictive kin.
Aunt
(obsolete) Any elderly woman.
Aunt
(obsolete) A procuress or bawd.
Aunt
The sister of one's father or mother; - correlative to nephew or niece. Also applied to an uncle's wife.
Aunt
An old woman; and old gossip.
Aunt
A bawd, or a prostitute.
Aunt
The sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle
FAQs
Is Aunty informal?
Yes, "Aunty" is considered informal.
Can Aunty and Aunt be used interchangeably?
Generally, but "Aunty" is more affectionate and "Aunt" is more formal.
Is Aunt formal?
Yes, "Aunt" is considered formal.
What is Aunty?
"Aunty" is an informal term for the sister of one's parent or the wife of one's uncle.
What is Aunt?
"Aunt" is a formal term for the sister of one's parent or the wife of one's uncle.
Does culture affect the use of Aunty?
Yes, "Aunty" might be used more broadly depending on cultural context.
Can Aunt be a verb?
No, "Aunt" is also a noun.
Is Aunty used in legal documents?
Rarely, "Aunt" is more common in such contexts.
Which is more commonly used, Aunty or Aunt?
"Aunt" is more commonly used in formal situations and documents.
What’s the plural of Aunty?
"Aunties"
Can Aunty be a verb?
No, "Aunty" is a noun.
Which is more modern, Aunty or Aunt?
Both terms are in current use, but "Aunty" may be considered more modern due to its casual tone.
Is Aunty a term of endearment?
Yes, "Aunty" is often used as a term of endearment.
What’s the plural of Aunt?
"Aunts"
Is Aunt used with children?
"Aunt" can be used with children but is less warm compared to "Aunty."
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
