boyfriend/girlfriend etc

[MikeNewYork]

Dear Mike,

Thank you very much for your reply. Now I see.

Jiang

You're welcome, Jiang.

[boothling]

Many married men would dispute your last statement.

Good point.

[MikeNewYork]

Good point.

[andi r]

Interesting question.
When in England, if you wish to avoid romantic connotations, stick to using 'she/this is my friend' or 'he/this is my friend'.
Popular colloquial is 'best mate', which means a male friend to whom you are close, but not romantically involved with.
(The female use of girlfriend meaning female associates is more american and not commonly used in England, other than exaggerated imitation)
A very common usage of 'mate!' is now used amongst the young instead of 'hey you!' 'excuse me sir' or 'I say good fellow may I attract your attention....'
Hope this helps,

[Tdol]

'Boss' is also used in the UK as an informal 'sir' by some young people.

[jiang]

Dear andi r,

Thank you very much for your explanation. Now I see.

Best wishes,

Jiang

Interesting question.
When in England, if you wish to avoid romantic connotations, stick to using 'she/this is my friend' or 'he/this is my friend'.
Popular colloquial is 'best mate', which means a male friend to whom you are close, but not romantically involved with.
(The female use of girlfriend meaning female associates is more american and not commonly used in England, other than exaggerated imitation)
A very common usage of 'mate!' is now used amongst the young instead of 'hey you!' 'excuse me sir' or 'I say good fellow may I attract your attention....'
Hope this helps,

[jiang]

Dear Tdol,

Thank you very much for your information. Now I see.

Jiang

'Boss' is also used in the UK as an informal 'sir' by some young people.