What it means
Mijo is short for mi hijo, "my son". Mija is mi hija, "my daughter". Older people use them with anyone younger they feel affection for: their own kids, nieces and nephews, neighbors, and, eventually, you.
The extra-sweet versions are mijito and mijita.
When their mom says it to you
Other terms of endearment
| You'll hear | It means |
|---|---|
| mi amor | my love. Used with kids, partners, even the cashier. |
| mi rey / mi reina | my king / my queen. Common from moms. |
| corazón | heart, sweetheart |
| cariño | darling |
| mi cielo | my sky, sweetheart |
| gordo / gorda | literally "chubby", but used with love, whatever your size. Not an insult. |
| flaco / flaca | literally "skinny", also affectionate |
What to say back
Don't call her mija back: it only goes from older to younger. Answer warmly, with her name.
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What does mijo mean?
It's short for mi hijo, my son. Older people use it affectionately with anyone younger, not only their own children.
Is mijo only used in Mexico?
It's very common in Mexico and among Mexican Americans, and you'll also hear it across much of Latin America, including Colombia.
Can I call my girlfriend mija?
Some couples do, playfully. But because it means 'my daughter', check how your partner feels about it first.
Is it rude to be called gorda or gordo?
Usually not. In many families it's a term of endearment, like 'sweetie', with nothing to do with weight.