What's your favorite swear word/insult?

[abaris]

Not in perception, no. Just in the means of communication. That said...remove this from a business environment, and a stranger walking up with a "Morning Buddy!" is pretty well received - maybe we're just conversational optimists? "Morning Sweetheart" has a similar intent, but could be seen as insulting or inappropriately familiar depending upon how far north or south you go (and other considerations as well). Out of habit I use that one alot, and I call guys (even strangers) brother to no end. It gets me scowls in Boston and beers in Birmingham.

Yes, that's why I was talking about a leisurely environment. Even at work, we're on first name basis with pretty much only the boss excluded.

All in all I would say, the tone makes the music. We don't use words like buddy or brother, but it's in the way how you're talking to another person that makes all the difference.