As someone who has spent many years in Australia where the term 'mate' is used in almost every social situation, I was surprised earlier this year when I was at the other end of this sort of conversation. Just been having a bit of a 'debate' with a feisty, rude and somewhat difficult Aussie in a work situation. I said something like, "I'm sure we can work out the best way to tackle this, mate" and was met with a "Don't call ME mate!".

Cue looks of surprise from everyone else because nobody in Australia would ever say that!