Complimenting an older man

I have an older Japanese officemate (like 5 yrs older than me) whom I complimented recently telling him that he's cute. He gave a little chuckle and said, "Cute? You know I'm older than you"

Was that offending to them?

Btw I'm Filipina

you used "kawaii?" generally kawaii isnt used for men, especially elder ones (use kakkoi or something like that instead). but if he did chuckle i guess it was ok, especially coming from a foreigner?

Hi Glimpigumpi - Yes, I told him "Ahhh cute" (well I was referring to his photo) Then yea,, many thanks for the response!

My understanding is that even in the United States or Britain, you don't use the English word "cute" to compliment your senior, unless you're flirting with him. To me, it's a word you use when you baby someone. But then, I'm not American nor British. I'm Japanese.

Cute depending on the context, can be used many ways also in the English language. In Britain or American as previously referenced, it can be used towards a senior or older person. But again without context, one cannot understand/know if it was used correctly or not.

But in Japanese society, I think you'll find cute/kawaii used more towards children, moi or smaller like persons/objects. And I think in the English language, you'll probably find it a similar fashion, just not as taboo if aimed towards a senior or older person.

But if you got a chuckle out of him, then I'm doubtful he got offended.