As nice as they may sound, sometimes they can come across as offensive and patronizing to whom you're having a conversation with.Terms of endearment are phrases or words used to address or describe a person, inanimate object or animal for which the speaker feels affection or love. Words such as dear, baby, honey, sweetheart, darling, love, babe and a host of so many others, can be referred to as words or terms of endearment.

We've all had our experiences of being called pet names. But there are times when a term of endearment can become the exact opposite. Usually, words like dear, honey, darling, sweetheart etc, are used by husband and wife and lovers to express their love for each other in conversations. It is also used by close friends and relatives as the case may be.

Recently, I've observed a pattern in conversations these days. People use words like dear, hun and love very often. I am guilty of this too to an extent and I have come to realize that sometimes, you just have to watch it. Not everyone appreciates being called "dear". There are certain times when you just have to lay off the use of these terms/words. Also keeping in mind who you're talking to.

There's a difference between being friendly and fresh and the fine line dividing the two can sometimes be hard to read. Each term of endearment has its own connotations, which are highly dependent on the situation they are used in, such as tone of voice, body language and social context.

Is it offensive to be called love, sweetheart, darling by a stranger? Is it appropriate to use these terms of endearment in the work place? What about text messaging or chats? I did my findings and here's what I dug up.

The age of the person with whom you're having a conversation with should be taken into cognizance. For example, you shouldn't refer to an aunt or uncle as "dear" or a friend of theirs as "darling" or "hun". It may pass off as being offensive and patronizing. When at work, the general consensus is to try and stay away from using words such as honey, love and the rest. It can be perceived as you putting up a power play or acting too informal. And also, make sure it's not said in a patronizing tone. For example, "You didn't have to say that,dear", "Just apologize, honey. You were wrong" These are passive aggressive statements and they shouldn't be laced with any words of endearment.

Personally, I feel you should know where you stand on the friendship ladder with someone before you choose to call them"dear","honey" or "darling". If I've known you for years, you're free to call me any pet name and likewise me to you. But in the case that we're just  meeting and I'm already your "dear" or "bae"(that's the latest), then I have a problem with that. Especially if I'm older than you. But on a second thought, you may really be dear to someone therefore the use of these terms can take effect. Another thing I've observed is that the use of these words have been abused in recent times because it means nothing to some people or its just a way of feeling cool in conversations. Whatever the case may be, just keep in mind who, where and when to say these words of endearment.