These six words describe relationships, but they are not always interchangeable. Choose according to tone, region, and what you want to emphasize.
- Friend is the broad, everyday choice for someone you know well and like. It works in both casual and more formal contexts: Leah is a friend from university. It does not automatically mean someone knows your secrets.
- Pal is an informal word for a friend: I had lunch with an old pal. It sounds familiar rather than formal.
- Buddy is also informal and is especially common in American English: My buddy helped me move. It can also describe someone paired with you for an activity: Each swimmer needs a buddy. That person need not be a close friend.
- Mate, meaning a friend, is informal and especially common in British, Australian, and New Zealand English: I’m meeting my mates after work. This use is less typical in American English.
- Companion emphasizes spending time together or sharing an activity, rather than emotional closeness: Ravi was my companion on the walking tour. A companion may also be a friend.
- Confidant emphasizes trust with private thoughts or secrets: Her sister became her closest confidant. Confidante is a spelling traditionally used for a woman; confidant can refer to any gender.
The same person can fit several descriptions. A casual friendship, shared company, and deep trust simply highlight different things about a relationship.