intimate; have an affair
Meanings
4 senses · 11 examplesadjective
intimate; on good terms; close
Describes a harmonious, close relationship between people, often of long standing.
The two of them have been close since childhood.
Our two families have always been on good terms.
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They are close friends.
noun
intimate friend; close friend
Refers to a person with whom one shares a close, friendly relationship. Can sometimes carry ambiguous connotations depending on context.
They have been close friends for decades.
Zhang San is a close friend of mine.
verb
to have an affair; to be romantically involved (often illicit)
informalUsually implies an improper, secret, or illicit romantic relationship outside of marriage. Often used with negative connotations.
He had an affair with that woman.
They are involved secretly.
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I heard they've been having an affair for several years.
noun
lover; partner in an affair (often illicit)
informalRefers to the person involved in an improper romantic relationship, often implying a secret lover or mistress/paramour.
He is her lover.
That man is her affair partner.
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He has a lover on the side.