Meaning and Usage
The word 朋友 (péngyǒu) means "friend" and is used to refer to someone with whom you share a close, friendly relationship. It can describe casual acquaintances or very close companions depending on context.
Common Collocations
- 朋友之间 (péngyǒu zhī jiān): between friends, emphasizing mutual relationship.
- 最好的朋友 (zuì hǎo de péngyǒu): best friend, indicating a very close friendship.
- 多年的朋友 (duōnián de péngyǒu): friends for many years, highlighting long-term friendship.
Usage Notes
When using 朋友, it often implies trust and mutual support. It is common to say 朋友之间应该互相帮助 (Friends should help each other) to express the ideal behavior among friends. Unlike some English uses of "friend," 朋友 usually implies a meaningful social bond rather than just a casual acquaintance.