The usage of "mate"

[LeTyan]

Hi,

I know that in American English, the word "mate" can be used as a generic term for both husbands and wives (However in British English "mate" often means "friend") . For example, speaking of marriage, it is difficult to find an ideal mate.

So I wonder what the British counterpart is for the American usage of "mate" as a generic term for husbands and wives?

Thank you!

 

[probus]

Speakers of BrE also use "mate" to describe the object of sexual bonding. They have no problem discriminating that usage from "mate" as friend. Context is all they need.

 

[MikeNewYork]

Another word would be "spouse".

 

[bhaisahab]

We use "partner" a lot.

 

[Matthew Wai]

Do you use "helpmate"?

 

[bhaisahab]

Do you use "helpmate"?

I have heard it, but I don't think it's used very much.