(はんりょ)

はんりょ
noun
partner; companion; spouse
formalwrittenperson
1. partner; companion; spouse; life partner
A person who accompanies one through life, typically a spouse or romantic partner. A somewhat formal or literary word that carries warmth and implies a deep, lasting bond.
I want to find a life partner.
I think she is the best partner I could have.
Having lost a longtime partner, he was sunk in deep grief.

Usage

A formal, somewhat literary word most commonly seen in the phrase 人生(じんせい)伴侶(はんりょ) (life partner). More elevated than 配偶者(はいぐうしゃ) (which is bureaucratic) or パートナー (which is casual). Used in speeches, wedding contexts, and reflective writing.

Common collocations

Similar words