Translation guide
In English, "the mate" can refer to a romantic partner, a close friend, or a counterpart in a pair. In Japanese, the translation depends heavily on context, relationship, and formality. Direct translations are rare; instead, use specific terms for the relationship or omit the subject when clear from context.
Referring to one's husband, wife, or life partner in a casual, affectionate way.
Standard word for 'husband'. Used when speaking about one's own husband to others. Not used to address him directly.
My husband is good at cooking.
Standard word for 'wife'. Used when speaking about one's own wife to others. Not used to address her directly.
I went to see a movie with my wife.
Loanword from English, used for a life partner or spouse, often in a modern or gender-neutral context. Can also refer to a business partner.
I live with my partner.
A somewhat old-fashioned or literary term for one's spouse, literally 'companion'. Can be used for either husband or wife.
I'm lonely since my spouse passed away.
Referring to a close male friend in a casual, friendly way, similar to 'mate' in British/Australian English.
General word for 'friend'. Safe and widely used, but lacks the specific 'mate' nuance.
He's a mate from my university days.
Means 'companion', 'comrade', or 'pal'. Implies a sense of belonging to the same group or sharing an activity.
Slang reversal of 友達 (ともだち). Used among young men, similar to 'bro' or 'mate'.
Hey mate, how's it going?
Referring to the matching counterpart of a pair of objects or animals.
Referring to a rank on a ship, such as first mate.
Standard term for a navigating officer on a ship. 'First mate' is 一等航海士.
He is the first mate of the ship.
Directly translating 'the mate' as メイト is not natural in most contexts. Use the appropriate Japanese term for the specific relationship or object.
When the referent is clear from context, Japanese often omits the subject or object. For example, instead of saying 'my mate', you might just use the person's name or a title.
釣り仲間と週末に海に行く。
I go to the sea on weekends with my fishing mates.
These birds act in mated pairs.