Girlfriend
A modern, neutral term for 'my partner'. It can refer to a girlfriend, boyfriend, or spouse and is very common.
A very casual term, like saying 'my girl' in English. Used for a girlfriend in an informal, affectionate way.
A more romantic or poetic term meaning 'my sweetheart' or 'my crush'. Common in countries like Peru.
She is my girlfriend, her name is Sofía.
My partner and I are going to the movies on Friday.
Is she your girlfriend?
I'd like you to meet my girl, Ana.
'Novia' is the most widely understood term. It can mean a serious girlfriend or a fiancée, depending on the context and country.
This is a critical difference. The word is 'polola' (poh-LOH-lah). Using 'novia' in Chile specifically means 'fiancée' or 'bride', implying you are engaged to be married.
'Novia' is used for a serious, long-term girlfriend. For more casual relationships, people might say 'mi chica' or describe the situation, like 'la chica con la que estoy saliendo' (the girl I'm going out with).
'Novia' is the standard term. You will also hear many affectionate terms used in its place, like 'mi amor' (my love) or 'mi nena' (my baby).
'Novia' is the standard and most common word. Very informal slang includes 'mi vieja' (literally 'my old lady').
'Novia' is the standard word, just like in most of Latin America.
Using 'amiga' instead of 'novia'. — 'Amiga' means a female friend. If you introduce your girlfriend as 'mi amiga', people will assume you are just friends. You must use 'novia' to indicate a romantic relationship.
Using 'polola' outside of Chile. — The word 'polola' is almost exclusively Chilean. Using it in Mexico, Colombia, or Spain will likely result in confusion. Stick to 'novia' unless you are in Chile.
Confusing 'novia' and 'esposa'. — 'Novia' means girlfriend (or fiancée), while 'esposa' means wife. Calling your wife your 'novia' can be a sweet, romantic gesture, but calling your girlfriend your 'esposa' is incorrect and would imply you are married.
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