common-law couple; couple in an illicit union
Refers to a couple living together as if married without legal registration, often with a nuance of an improper or secret relationship. The term can carry a slightly old-fashioned or judgmental tone.
They have been living together as a common-law couple for over ten years.
In the past, couples in illicit unions were looked down upon by society.
Standard kanji spelling.
Mixed kana-kanji spelling; the first part is written in kana.
Compound of 馴れ合い (nareai, 'collusion, secret understanding') and 夫婦 (fūfu, 'married couple'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term suggests a couple whose relationship is based on an informal, possibly improper, agreement rather than formal marriage.