Translation guide
The English word "partner" can refer to a romantic partner, a business partner, or a companion in an activity. Japanese uses different words depending on the relationship and context. This guide helps learners choose the most natural expression.
Referring to a romantic partner, such as a spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, or life partner, in a neutral or inclusive way.
A direct loanword from English, commonly used in modern Japanese to refer to a romantic partner, especially in contexts where gender neutrality or non-marital relationships are emphasized. It can sound slightly formal or business-like in casual conversation.
My partner is good at cooking.
Means 'boyfriend/girlfriend' or 'sweetheart'. It implies a romantic relationship but not necessarily marriage. It is gender-neutral and commonly used.
He lives with his partner.
Means 'husband'. Use when referring specifically to a male spouse. In formal contexts, 主人 (しゅじん) is also used, but it can sound patriarchal.
My partner (husband) is an office worker.
Means 'wife'. Use when referring specifically to a female spouse. In formal contexts, 家内 (かない) is also used, but it can sound old-fashioned.
My partner (wife) is a doctor.
A somewhat old-fashioned or literary term for 'spouse' or 'life partner'. It is gender-neutral and can be used for either husband or wife, often by older generations.
I'm going on a trip with my partner.
Referring to a person you work with in a business, such as a co-owner, collaborator, or associate.
The loanword is also the most common term for a business partner. It can refer to a co-owner, a professional collaborator, or a firm you work with.
He is my business partner.
Literally 'joint manager', this is a more formal term for a business partner who co-owns or co-runs a company.
Means 'collaborator' or 'cooperator'. It can be used for a business partner in the sense of someone who cooperates on a project, but it is less specific than パートナー.
Referring to a person you do an activity with, such as a dance partner, tennis partner, or conversation partner.
Again, the loanword is widely used for any kind of activity partner. It is natural and easily understood.
I'm looking for a dance partner.
Means 'opponent' or 'the other person' in a pair or group. It is very common for sports, games, and conversations. It can sound slightly competitive or neutral depending on context.
Means 'partner' or 'buddy', often used for a close working partner, like a detective's partner or a trusted teammate. It implies a strong bond.
Referring to a person you have a sexual relationship with, often without romantic commitment.
While パートナー is widely understood, using it in very casual conversation about a boyfriend/girlfriend can sound a bit stiff or business-like. In those cases, 恋人 (こいびと) or simply the person's name + さん/くん is more natural.
Yesterday, I watched a movie with my partner.
パートナー is gender-neutral and can imply a serious, possibly non-marital relationship. 恋人 is explicitly romantic but not necessarily cohabiting or married. 夫/妻 are specific to husband/wife. Choose based on the level of commitment and formality you want to convey.
I discussed the policy with my business partner.
There are many partners in this project.
テニスの相手がいない。
I don't have a tennis partner.
彼は私の相棒だ。
He's my partner (in crime, work, etc.).
The number of sexual partners is a personal choice.