The word "lad" is often used to refer to a young boy or man, but there are many synonyms that can be used in its place. Some of these synonyms include chap, dude, bloke, fella, guy, boy, youngster, juvenile, adolescent, and teen. Each of these words carries a slightly different connotation, and it's important to choose the right synonym for the context in which it is used. For example, "bloke" is a more informal and colloquial term that is typically used in British English, while "adolescent" is a more formal and clinical term that is often used in medical or psychological contexts.