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Snarf Posted 13 years ago
Vocabulary

Mates

If two people are lovers but not married, can they be called "mates," a term that I know is not so common anymore unless speaking of animals, which we actually are, anyway?

Thanks.
  

Top answer

Snarf If two people are lovers but not married, can they be called "mates," a term that I know is not so common anymore unless speaking of animals, No, and for the reason you have given. It would be rude. The word today is 'partners'.

— Mister Micawber

  • Snarf If two people are lovers but not married, can they be called "mates," a term that I know is not so common anymore unless speaking of animals, No, and for the reason you have given.
  • It would be rude.
  • The word today is 'partners'.
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6 Answers
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Snarf If two people are lovers but not married, can they be called "mates," a term that I know is not so common anymore unless speaking of animals,
No, and for the reason you have given. It would be rude. The word today is 'partners'.
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Could they say "mate" in the 18th century, or was it "partner" back then too?
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Sweethearts, perhaps?
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i think the term partner could be considered only for those who got married...i feel like it doesnt suits for lovers indeed...am i right?
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tulip2013i think the term partner could be considered only for those who got married
No. It is used more often of those who are unmarried.
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