伴侣

• Pinyin: bàn lǚ
• Hanzi breakdown: 伴 = 亻+ 半 (companion); 侣 = 亻+ 吕 (pair/mate)

Meaning

Partner; companion; spouse.

Refers to a romantic partner or life companion. More intimate than 同伴 (general companion) and more modern/neutral than 配偶 (spouse). Common in discussions of relationships and marriage.

Examples

1. 找到一个理解你的伴侣是很幸运的事。 Finding a partner who understands you is a lucky thing.
2. 他们是相识二十年的老伴侣了。 They've been partners for twenty years since they first met.
3. 现代社会对伴侣的选择越来越自由了。 In modern society, the choice of partners has become increasingly free.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, lifestyle

Tone: warm

Do Say

• 她是我的人生伴侣。(She is my life partner.)
• 选择伴侣要慎重。(Choose your partner carefully.)

Don't Say

• 对普通朋友用'伴侣' (Don't call ordinary friends 伴侣 — it implies romantic partnership)

Origin & History

伴 (companion) + 侣 (mate/pair). A paired companion.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal