I am still in the process of learning english and would like to know to whom and when to say " nighty night"

Question

I have learned that this phrase will be used with children, however, I've overheard an adult saying it to another adult. Is this appropriate?
Thanks

Answer 1

use it for kids--

Answer 2

My friend, unless you had someone else write this, you are no longer in the process of learning, you are a better English writer than 99% of the English speaking world. I mean, you even properly used the word "whom" since it is an object of a preposition. As far as your question, yes it is a cutesy way of wishing someone goodnight, and should be reserved mostly for children. It's tough to be a bad-*** AND have the phrase "nighty night" in your repertoire.

Answer 3

This is generally only appropriate with people you know very well. It's a "cute" phrase, and probably more likely to be used by women than men. If you use it, you're at risk of sounding a little silly. I would not recommend the use of this for someone who is not a native speaker of English, as people will probably just assume you don't know the proper usage of the phrase, even if you're trying to be cute or ironic.

If you don't mind being chuckled at a little, though, go ahead and use it. I don't think it'll offend anyone.

Answer 4

nighty night can be said to adults but its more of a way to say goodnight to a child. Saying it to an adult could insult them, depending on their personality. If its some one close to you or a very good friend then its okay to say it.

Answer 5

It's more appropriate from one adult to another if it's your husband, children or another family member or friend you feel close and loving to. More for a woman to say than a man, unless it's to a child.

Answer 6

It is a little childish, but can also be used with an adult. Generally, it would be used with someone you know very well, rather than in a formal situation.

Good luck, English is a very strange and wonderful language, and you will experience many colourful and peculiar terms like this one. It is what makes it such a wonderful language.

Answer 7

It's OK Man! NIghty night! to an adult is OK! Or the appropriate way would be GOODNIGHT

Answer 8

Yes. we say it to someone, right before going to sleep. to adults or children. Children seem to like it more. Just another way to say (Good Night)

Answer 9

Nighty night suggests affection and should be used accordingly to ones children, spouse or a very close friend.

Answer 10

If you use it in one of the above mentioned adult situations, it's usually said in a casual, friendly, and sing-songy voice.

It's an expression that isn't overused by anyone, even with kids.

Answer 11

I wouldn't use it with an adult. Its cute when you're talking with a child but sounds like baby talk when using it with an adult.