Son
A very common and affectionate contraction of 'mi hijo' (my son). Used like 'honey' or 'my dear son'.
Used for a young son, similar to 'little boy' or 'baby boy'.
A general term for 'boy', but parents can use it to refer to their son, like 'my boy'.
My son is five years old.
What is your son's name?
Son (dear), the food is ready.
My little boy (son) is playing in the park.
'Hijo' is the universal standard. The affectionate term 'mijo' (a contraction of 'mi hijo') is extremely common, especially in Mexico, Central America, and Colombia.
'Hijo' is standard. 'Mijo' is used constantly as a term of endearment, even by strangers to a younger person. 'Chamaco' is an informal alternative for 'kid'.
'Hijo' is standard. 'Mijo' is also common. In some informal contexts, 'pelado' can be used to mean 'kid' or 'boy'.
'Hijo' is the correct term. Informally, people use 'pibe' to mean 'kid' or 'boy', which can be used to refer to a son.
'Hijo' is the standard word. The term 'mijo' is not common. Instead, 'chaval' or 'chico' are informal words for 'boy' or 'lad' that could be used.
Pronouncing the 'h' or 'j' incorrectly, for example, saying 'HEE-jo'. — The 'h' in 'hijo' is always silent. The 'j' sounds like the 'h' in the English word 'he'. The correct pronunciation is 'EE-ho'.
Confusing 'hijo' with 'niño'. For example, asking '¿Es tu niño?' to mean 'Is he your son?'. — 'Niño' means 'child' or 'boy' in general. 'Hijo' specifically means 'son' (a male child in relation to his parents). The correct question is '¿Es tu hijo?'.
Using 'hijo' for a daughter. — Spanish nouns have gender. 'Hijo' is for a son. For a daughter, you must use the feminine form, 'hija'. The plural 'hijos' refers to multiple sons or a group of sons and daughters together.
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