novia
everyday, Mexico
In Mexico a girlfriend is a novia. Pareja is a neutral word for "partner", and it is often used for both sexes. It is also called mi pareja.
Meaning: a woman in a romantic relationship (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| novia | everyday, Mexico |
| mi pareja | neutral |
Mi novia is a clear statement of a relationship. Say Te presento a mi novia to introduce her. Pareja fits couples who live together or prefer not to label the relationship.
Which one should you use?
Novia also means "bride", and also "fiancée", so some people say mi novia for a serious relationship and not for casual dating. For casual dating Mexicans may say salgo con alguien.
How does it change in a sentence?
The male form is novio. The noun is feminine and takes la or mi: mi novia.
Did you know?
- In Mexico the 14th of February is called Día del Amor y la Amistad, which celebrates both couples and friends.
Examples in context
- Te presento a mi novia.Let me introduce my girlfriend.
- Mi novia vive en Puebla.My girlfriend lives in Puebla.
- Ella es mi pareja desde hace tres años.She has been my partner for three years.
Example conversation
Gabo brings his girlfriend to meet his friend Toño at a taquería in Mexico City.
- GaboToño, te presento a mi novia, Sara.Toño, let me introduce my girlfriend, Sara.
- ToñoMucho gusto, Sara.Nice to meet you, Sara.
- SaraIgualmente, Gabo me habló mucho de ti.Likewise, Gabo told me a lot about you.
