21 Other Ways to Say “Best Friend”

21 Other Ways to Say “Best Friend” opens the door to a world beyond the usual label. Friendships come in many shapes and sizes, each carrying its own unique flavor. Whether it’s a deep emotional connection or a playful friendship, the words we choose to describe these bonds reveal just how special they are. This article dives into a rich collection of terms that celebrate loyalty, trust, and shared memories, helping you express the true depth of your relationships.

Using phrases like soulmate, confidant, or ride or die adds warmth and meaning to everyday conversations. These alternatives capture moments of emotional support and the joy of having a trusted friend by your side through life’s ups and downs. Read on to enrich your vocabulary and better honor those incredible people who make your life brighter.

Soulmate

She’s my soulmate, understanding me like no one else. This phrase goes beyond friendship—it hints at a spiritual bond that connects two souls. It’s perfect when your friend gets you on a level no one else can.

Scenario:
Email to Jordan
“Hey Jordan, I just wanted to say you’re not just my friend, but my soulmate. Our conversations and shared memories show a bond that transcends typical boundaries. I treasure every moment we spend sharing the same passions and dreams.”

Confidant

A confidant is the friend who keeps your secrets and never judges. You trust them with your inner world.

Scenario:
Email to Mia
“Dear Mia, thank you for being such a trusted friend. You’re the confidant I turn to when life gets complicated. Having you by my side means I always have emotional support and a safe space to be myself.”

Lifelong Companion

This term highlights the time and constancy of your friendship. It’s for the one who’s been there for years.

Scenario:
Anniversary card to Sam
“Sam, you’ve been my lifelong companion, with me through thick and thin. Our life journey together has made us more like family than friends.”

Brother from Another Mother

For the guy who feels like family but isn’t related by blood. It’s playful and heartfelt.

Scenario:
Text to Chris
“You’re my brother from another mother. You always have my back, no matter what. It’s wild how close we’ve gotten—sometimes it even feels like family.”

Check out this: 20 Other Ways to Say “Lucky to Have You”

Sister from Another Mother

The female version of the above. This phrase expresses that tight-knit bond that’s as strong as sisterhood.

Scenario:
Brunch invite to Rachel
“Rachel, you’re my sister from another mother. Whether we’re laughing over coffee or sharing secrets, our informal friendship is one of my greatest joys.”

Kindred Spirit

When you meet someone who shares your outlook on life, your values, and your passions, you’ve found a kindred spirit.

Scenario:
Note to Liam
“Liam, you’re a true kindred spirit. I feel like we’re on the same wavelength, sharing the same passions and dreams. It’s rare to find someone who just gets you like that.”

Partner in Crime

This term is perfect for that fun-loving friend who’s always ready to join you in a little mischief or adventure.

Scenario:
Email to Emma
“Hey Emma, you’re my ultimate partner in crime. Whether it’s spontaneous road trips or ideas, you’re always up for any adventure and make life exciting.”

Ride or Die

A phrase that screams loyalty. Your ride or die is the person who stays by your side no matter what.

Scenario:
Birthday message to Alex
“Alex, you’re my ride or die. I know you’ll be supporting me in every situation, and that kind of loyalty is priceless.”

More for you: 21 Other Ways to Say “That Works for Me”

Bosom Buddy

An old-fashioned yet charming way to describe a very close, intimate friend with whom you share everything.

Scenario:
Letter to childhood friend
“To my dear bosom buddy, Jane, we’ve been inseparable since school days, sharing all our secrets and dreams. Our long-standing friendship means the world to me.”

Amigo / Amiga

Borrowed from Spanish, it’s casual, friendly, and adds a touch of international flair.

Scenario:
Travel journal entry
“Met so many people on this trip, but Carlos remains my true amigo—a close companion who makes every moment unforgettable.”

Comrade

Often used in professional or activist contexts, this word means a friend who shares your goals and missions.

Scenario:
Email to colleague Sarah
“Sarah, you’ve been more than a coworker—you’re a true comrade in our pursuit of social change. Working with you on this project has deepened our friendship.”

Anchor

An anchor is someone who keeps you steady and emotionally balanced when life gets rough.

Scenario:
Text to Mark
“When everything feels chaotic, you’re my anchor, keeping me grounded and calm. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

For your interest: 12 Other Ways to Say “Let Me Know if I Missed Anything”

Heart-to-Heart Companion

For friends with whom you share deep, meaningful conversations and emotional intimacy.

Scenario:
Coffee catch-up invite
“Let’s meet soon—I miss our talks. You’ve always been my heart-to-heart companion, someone I can really open up to.”

Trusted Friend

This phrase emphasizes the reliability and honesty of a friend.

Scenario:
Thank you note to Olivia
“Olivia, thank you for being such a trusted friend. I know I can count on you for anything, and that means everything.”

Loyal Friend

Used to describe someone whose loyalty never wavers, no matter the circumstances.

Scenario:
Appreciation email to David
“David, you’ve proven time and again you’re a loyal friend. Your unwavering support has helped me through so much.”

Close Companion

This term focuses on the closeness and companionship that defines your relationship.

Scenario:
Letter to Ella
“Ella, you’re my close companion in both good times and bad. We’ve built a friendship that I treasure deeply.”

Intimate Friend

An intimate friend is someone you trust deeply, sharing your vulnerabilities without fear.

Scenario:
Personal diary entry
“She’s my intimate friend, someone with whom I share my fears and dreams openly. That kind of connection is rare.”

Playful Friendship

A fun, lighthearted relationship full of laughter and good times.

Scenario:
Text to Max
“Max, our playful friendship always brightens my day. You’re the guy who makes even the dullest moments fun.”

You might also like: 23 Creative Ways to Say “Welcome”

Informal Friendship

A relaxed, easygoing friendship without the pressure of formalities.

Scenario:
Message to Chloe
“Chloe, I love how our informal friendship lets us just be ourselves—no pretenses, just real connection.”

Professional Collaboration

A friendship that grows out of working together toward shared goals.

Scenario:
Email to coworker Ben
“Ben, our professional collaboration turned into a genuine friendship. It’s amazing how shared challenges can create strong bonds.”

Childhood Friend

Someone who has been part of your life since the early days, growing up together.

Scenario:
Birthday card to Natalie
“Natalie, you’re my childhood friend. We’ve made shared memories that will last a lifetime.”

Summary Table of Synonyms

Synonym	Context / Meaning
Soulmate	Deep, spiritual bond
Confidant	Trusted keeper of secrets
Lifelong Companion	Friend for life, constant
Brother from Another Mother	Close male friend who feels like family
Sister from Another Mother	Close female friend who feels like family
Kindred Spirit	Shared values and dreams
Partner in Crime	Fun-loving companion for adventures
Ride or Die	Loyal friend through anything
Bosom Buddy	Intimate, old-fashioned close friend
Amigo / Amiga	Casual, friendly, international flair
Comrade	Friend sharing common cause or goals
Anchor	Emotional support and stability
Heart-to-Heart Companion	Friend for deep conversations
Trusted Friend	Reliable and honest
Loyal Friend	Unwavering loyalty
Close Companion	Constant, trusted company
Intimate Friend	Deeply trusted, vulnerable connection
Playful Friendship	Fun, lighthearted friendship
Informal Friendship	Relaxed and genuine connection
Professional Collaboration	Friendship from shared work and goals
Childhood Friend	Friend since early life, long-lasting

FAQs

What makes a friendship qualify as a “ride or die” relationship?

A “ride or die” friend shows unwavering support and stands by you through every challenge without hesitation.

Can “partner in crime” be used for professional friendships?

Usually, it describes a fun-loving friend in casual settings, not professional collaborations.

How is a “bosom buddy” different from a regular friend?

A “bosom buddy” is an intimate friend with whom you share deep trust and personal secrets.

Is “comrade” only used in political or activist contexts?

While often linked to a common cause, it can also describe any friend sharing strong, shared goals.

Can “amigo” or “amiga” be used in formal writing?

They’re best suited for informal friendship contexts or adding a friendly, cultural touch.

Conclusion

21 Other Ways to Say “Best Friend” reminds us that every friendship has its own story and special name. From a lifelong companion to a partner in crime, these words help capture the essence of bonds built on trust and fun. Using the right term shows how much you value your friend.

Words matter because they reflect the shared memories and meaningful conversations that shape your connection. This list encourages you to speak from the heart and celebrate every unique friendship in your life with genuine words.