Came here to say this, as "boy" or "boyo" (or for you brits: "lad" and "laddie") can be used affectionately but definitely diminutive. I see it as no more offensive than Japanese honorifics like "senpai".
In Hindi as well it's common to refer to people much younger to use as "kid". Like my parents will be called "kid" by someone in their 80s. And in the reverse situation you can call anyone much older than you uncle/auntie
Not always. It's diminutive, but that doesn't always need to be patronizing.
Came here to say this, as "boy" or "boyo" (or for you brits: "lad" and "laddie") can be used affectionately but definitely diminutive. I see it as no more offensive than Japanese honorifics like "senpai".
In Hindi as well it's common to refer to people much younger to use as "kid". Like my parents will be called "kid" by someone in their 80s. And in the reverse situation you can call anyone much older than you uncle/auntie