Last night, I met some old friends and played an interesting bar word game on “female friend in Spanish.” For context, one of my friend’s friends was in Nairobi for Safari – yes, it’s that time of the year to see wildlife in Kenya, and he told us this interesting story that’s morphed into a bar game.
I won’t bore you with his escapes in Thailand, but he was in a pickle. The more he tried to explain to them that one of his acquaintances was just a female friend, the worse the situation got.
After that scary ordeal, whenever he travels into unknown territory, he tries as much as possible to learn several variations of common terminologies in the native language. And so, each of us sitting at that particular table was randomly asked to state five different ways to say ‘female friend’ in a language we were proficient in. I chose Spanish – I took it as a secondary language in high school and college, and I have been polishing my skills for a potentially anticipated trip to South America.
The game’s rules were to ensure everyone got all five variations, even if it meant calling a relative. I managed to get ten, but not without a few friends and an eavesdropper sitting at the next table. Overall, it was a very entertaining game and night, and I learned something—I decided to share this knowledge with my readers.
How to Say Female Friend in Spanish
The following are ten ways to say “female friend” in Spanish. Test your Spanish proficiency with the following nuances. These are best used when traveling in Spanish-speaking countries.
La Amiga
Everyone knows the word “Amiga”. It is the most basic Spanish word, thanks to soap operas, and it’s also the most commonly used term to refer to a friend in Spanish. Add the female article ‘la’ – La Amiga to refer to a female friend in Spanish.
You can also use Amiga alone to refer to a female friend but don’t use it for a male friend. For a male friend, include the article “el”—“El Amigo.”
An example in a sentence is “Esta es mi la amiga, Jennifer,” which means “This is my friend, Jennifer.” It’s simple and friendly.
Amiga Cercana
Perhaps you have a female friend who’s very close to you, and you’d like to express this relationship during an introduction. The phrase “amiga cercana” will do. This phrase shows a deep bonded friendship (personal bond).
You can use this phrase to refer to long childhood friends that you trust and share intimacy.
Example in a sentence: “Shiela es mi amiga cercana,” which means Shiela is my close friend. You can go further and add “nos conocermos desde la infancia,” to mean we’ve known each other since childhood.
Companera
“Companera” loosely translates to a companion in English and is best used professionally. You could use it to refer to a female friend who also doubles up as a work colleague or one that you go with to school (higher education).
The term “companera” can be used to describe the collaborative effect of a friendship in a professional setting. It can also refer to that close female friend at work with whom you regularly take coffee and lunch breaks.
Example in a sentence: “Mi companera de trabajo es muy amable,” to mean, My work companion is very kind.
Colega
Like the term Companera, “colega,” which translates to “colleague” in English, is ideal for friendships in a work-related or professional setting. It could be in an academic institution or a hobby group.
Still, “colega” can be used to show that you share a special bond over mutual interests, especially in professional activities.
Example in a sentence: “Mi colega del club de lactura simpre tiene buenas recomendaciones,” my colleague from the book club always has good recommendations.
Querida
If you are trying to add an affectionate intonation to a female friend, you’ll use “querida” to mean dear. This term is ideal when speaking about someone you feel you share great fondness with.
For instance, when writing a letter or email, begin with “querida Mercy” to mean “dear Mercy.” This adds warmth and intimacy while addressing a close female friend.
An example in a sentence is “Querida Mercy, me alegra mucho saber de ti” which means “Dear Mercy, I’m so glad to hear from you.”
Amiga entranable
When you need to add extra warmth to the term female friend, you can use “Amiga entranable,” to mean beloved or dear friend. This Spanish term can also describe someone who holds a special place in your heart.
It is a deep way to show or express a deep affection to someone you have deep affection for.
Example in a senctence: “Stacey es una amiga entranable, siempre puedo contar con ella,” to mean, Stacey is a dear friend, i can always count on her.
Amiga del Alma
The first time I heard this phrase was not in a Spanish class but in a soap opera. “Amiga del alma” is a phrase perfect for a friend who feels like a soulmate. You can use this term to show a profound spiritual connection.
“Amiga del alma,” signifies a friendship bond that’s deeper than normal friendship with a female friend.
An example in a sentence is “Mi amiga del alma y yo compartimos todo,” which means “My soul friend and I share everything.”
Complice
“Complice” means what you think it is – accomplice. It is a Spanish term that can be used by a female friend to add a playful twist to their description. This can be perfect for that friend who loves adventure – think of that one person you wouldn’t want to miss on a Friday night.
This Spanish term is perfect for those friends who are always by your side during sun escapades.
Example in a sentence: “Shirley es mi complice en todas las travesuras,” means, Shirley is my accomplice in all mischief.
Aliada
“Aliada” closely relates to the English term ally and is ideal for a female friend who is always there for you, standing by you through thick and thin. It’s the perfect term to use when you want to emphasize your friend’s support and loyalty.
Aliada best describes a supportive and steadfast friendship. These friends would rather be with you in danger than walk away.
An example in a sentence is “Ana es una aliada incredible, siempre me apoya en todo,” which means Ana is an incredible ally; she always supports me in everything.
Confidente
We all have friends who keep our deepest, darkest secrets. ” Confidente,” in Spanish, which means confidant in English, is a great way to refer to this female friend. The term is ideal for a friendship rooted in confidentiality and trust.
Use “Confidente for that friend who is part of your inner circle – the one you can’t wait to call in the morning for some hot gossip.
An example in a sentence is “Gretchen es mi confidente; nunca me ha fallado,” which means “Gretchen is my confidant; she has never let me down.”
I hope this post has helped you find several ways to say “female friend” in Spanish, enriching your vocabulary. Can you find other ways to say “female friend” in the language you love most? Use this game as an icebreaker—I guarantee success!