Auntie and Uncle

A common phenomenon in Singapore is to hear people call their elders "auntie" (female) and "uncle" (male) even though they are in no way related.

Quote from a Singaporean: "From young, my parents taught me to call anyone older, especially those who are married or are working, “auntie” or “uncle”. It is a way of showing respect. If you feel old just because people call you “auntie” or “uncle”, then you have a self-esteem problem. If you are a foreigner who objects to being called “auntie” and “uncle”, I say this is part of our culture, so accept it."

Quite funny to hear people saying this on the streets to shop owners or people in other occupations. :)