partners

word · lemma: partner

/ˈpɑɹtnɝz/
PART-nurz
/pˈɑːtnəz/
PAH-tnuhz

Definition

People who are connected in an activity, relationship, or business together. It can mean people who work together, dance together, or are in a romantic relationship.

Usage & Nuances

A very flexible plural noun. In business, 'business partners' is common; in relationships, 'partners' can sound neutral and modern compared with 'husband/wife' or 'boyfriend/girlfriend'. The exact meaning depends heavily on context.

Example Sentences

We were partners in the dance class.

basic

They are partners in a small company.

basic

My aunt and her partner live in Madrid.

basic

We're not just coworkers anymore—we're partners now.

natural

The two firms have been partners for over a decade.

natural

At the wedding, everyone was asked to bring their partners.

natural