Can the Spanish word "cariño" be used with a friend?

[Anonymous]

I tend to treat my family members using words like "cariño","cielo", "corazón", "mi vida"... but I'm always unsure to use those words with my friends (especially guys), i really like to use that word "cariño" or "mi vida" which is more like a habit, but Is it ok to address a friend with those words (especially a guy friend)?

It's ok to use the word cariño with a friend (guy).

It's wrong, it sends a romantic message.. so don't use that word with a friend (guy).

[xxmamichulaxx]

It depends. Puerto Ricans and Mexicans and Argentinians and Spaniards all use these words differently. Some people think its fine for friends , some think its only for lovers.

[Asker]

Well the majority of my friends are Mexicans. Do you know how they interpret this words?

[xxmamichulaxx]

I've really only seen it uses as a romantic nickname by Mexicans , along with a lot of other people. I don't think its really appropriate for male friends

[xxmamichulaxx]

If you wanna call them nicknames try something like Nene , its less romantic