Pal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pal
[pæl ]
Definitions
friendship
a very close friend; a buddy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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pal |
Use this term in informal situations when referring to someone you are friendly with. It carries a casual, friendly tone.
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friend |
A versatile and neutral term that can be used in both casual and formal situations to refer to a person with whom you share a bond of mutual affection, trust, and support.
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companion |
This word is best used in more formal or serious contexts, often when referring to someone who is consistently by your side, like in a journey or as a life partner.
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mate |
Commonly used in British English or Australian English to refer to a friend. It has a casual, friendly tone. Be careful, it can sometimes be used sarcastically or with mild aggression.
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Examples of usage
- I've known him since we were kids, he's like a pal to me.
- She's my pal, I can always count on her.
dog
a domesticated animal kept for companionship or amusement.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pal |
Informal context, typically when referring to a close friend or buddy. Often used in casual conversations.
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pet |
Commonly used to refer to domesticated animals kept for pleasure or companionship. Mostly used in everyday conversations and informal contexts.
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companion |
More formal or intimate context, typically used for someone who provides company, often in long-term situations. Can also refer to pets in a more personal manner.
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animal |
Used when referring to a living organism that is not human. Generally used in formal, scientific, or general contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He loves his pal, they go on walks together every day.
- Our family dog is more than just a pet, he's a loyal pal.
informal
to become friends or associate closely with.
Synonyms
befriend, chum up, hang out.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pal |
Informally refers to a friend or someone with whom you share a friendly relationship. It is often used in casual conversations and carries a neutral to positive tone.
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befriend |
Used when talking about starting a friendship or being friendly to someone, often someone who needs support or a new friend. It can have a more formal tone.
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chum up |
An informal phrase used to describe the act of becoming friendly or forming a close friendship. It has a cheerful and casual connotation.
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hang out |
Commonly used in informal contexts to describe spending time together with friends in a relaxed manner.
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Examples of usage
- I hope we can pal up and work on this project together.
- After a few drinks, they palled around like old friends.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The word 'pal' has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, often used by characters to denote camaraderie.
- In music, many songs celebrate friendship, frequently using 'pal' in lyrics to represent close bonds among people.
- Popular cartoons often depict characters referring to each other as 'pals,' emphasizing friendship among different species, like in 'Toy Story.'
Psychology
- Studies show that having a 'pal' can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health by providing emotional support.
- Friendship is associated with higher levels of happiness and longer life expectancy, emphasizing the importance of a 'pal.'
- Social bonds formed with friends can boost productivity and creativity, often leading to successful teamwork.
Literature
- In classic literature, friendships are often central themes, with characters referring to each other as 'pal' to indicate loyalty.
- The bond between 'pals' is a common trope in young adult fiction, showcasing the adventures and challenges faced together.
- Famous authors often explore the dynamics between friends, illustrating both the joys and the trials of being 'pals' in their narratives.
Origin of 'pal'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pal' originally comes from the Romani word 'pāl,' meaning 'brother' or 'friend.'
- It became popular in English in the 19th century, often used to refer to a close companion.
- In the 1960s, 'pal' became a more casual term for friends, especially among younger people.
The word 'pal' originated in the 17th century, derived from the Romani language meaning 'brother'. Over time, it evolved to represent a close friend or companion. The term became popular in informal settings and is commonly used to describe a friend or someone with whom one has a close bond.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #16,058, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 16055 spar
- 16056 caricature
- 16057 outlaw
- 16058 pal
- 16059 variegated
- 16060 siliceous
- 16061 itinerant
- ...