familybeginneruniversal
Vater / Papa
/ˈfaːtɐ/, /ˈpapa/
Father / Dad
When to use it
'Vater' is formal/written. 'Papa' is what almost everyone actually says, even as adults. 'Vati' is a softer alternative.
In conversation
—Mein Papa kommt morgen zu Besuch.
“—My dad is coming to visit tomorrow.”