Should calling a woman "chica" be deamed offensive?

Question

as a greeting to a girlfriend, playfully

Please remember that correct spelling and capitalization are mandatory on this site, welcome to the forum:) - 00494d19, Dec 20, 2011

Answer 1

HI rey, no, this is not offensive, it si actually very often used

"Si"? - kmaakheru, Dec 20, 2011

"is" - ajaks, Dec 20, 2011

Answer 2

Please, natives: What should you say then? I thought chica was ok, for younger people?

I feel inwardly mortified to be called Señora, even though I know it's totally polite and normal for people of my age.. I would be happy with chica,myself.. Delighted!

I use "chica" indiscrimintaly, regardless of age. I only refrain from using the term when addressing women in formal business situations. No one has slapped me for that yet. - Gekkosan, Dec 20, 2011

Pleased to meet you, Gekkosan. I agree, formal situations are different. - annierats, Dec 20, 2011

hey chica................go wash the dishes ;-) - billygoat, Dec 20, 2011

What, are you looking to have some dishes broken over your head, Billy? - Gekkosan, Dec 20, 2011

So, if I walked up to your mom and said, "Ola chica, ¿ Qué pasa? That would be ok? - kmaakheru, Dec 20, 2011

kmaakheru, being in her late 80's and speaking no Spanish she would take it as a kind offer of you to do the dishes.. - annierats, Dec 21, 2011

I think she would be charmed, in fact! Billy may not be deemed quite so charming, she speaks good English.. - annierats, Dec 21, 2011

Answer 3

Only in a VERY familiar situation. the men use it between themselves of course. but Never address a woman as "chica' unless you know her well.

Answer 4

Recommend that you use it in situations of familiarity as opposed to general conversation.