Both amigo and compañero can be translated as "friend" in English, but they have different connotations and are used in different contexts. Amigo refers to a friend with whom you share a personal bond, while compañero means a companion, colleague, or partner, and the relationship is usually more situational or formal.
Meaning
The fundamental difference lies in the nature of the relationship.
- Amigo: A friend with whom you have a personal and emotional connection.
- Compañero: A companion or partner in a specific context, such as work, school, or a shared activity; not necessarily a close friend.
Nuances
The words differ in the level of intimacy and formality implied.
- Amigo implies affection and personal bond.
- Compañero implies coexistence or collaboration, without necessarily implying emotional closeness.
Usage
Amigo is used for relationships based on choice and affection, while compañero describes people you share time or activities with, regardless of personal feelings.
- Use amigo when talking about someone you care about or spend time with socially.
- Use compañero when referring to someone you work, study, or participate in activities with.
Examples
| Spanish Example | English Example |
|---|---|
| Ella es mi amiga desde la infancia. | She has been my friend since childhood. |
| Juan es mi compañero de trabajo. | Juan is my work colleague. |
Common Contexts
Amigo
- Social gatherings
- Childhood and lifelong friendships
- Expressing affection or support
Compañero
- Workplaces
- Schools and universities
- Group projects or team activities
- Situations requiring cooperation
Fill in the blank: You are in a group project at school. You call your associate your _____. → Estás en un proyecto grupal en la escuela. Llamas a tu compañero tu _____.
compañero
A school project is a situational context, so compañero is appropriate.
Fill in the blank: You share shifts with someone at work. You call them your _____. → Compartes turnos con alguien en el trabajo. Lo llamas tu _____.
compañero
Sharing shifts is a workplace context, so compañero is the correct term.
Fill in the blank: You support someone emotionally. You call them your _____. → Apoyas emocionalmente a alguien. Lo llamas tu _____.
amigo
Emotional support suggests a personal connection, which fits amigo.
Conclusion
- Use amigo for personal, emotional friendships.
- Use compañero for situational relationships involving shared activities or responsibilities.
Flashcards (1 of 2)
- English Example: She has been my friend since childhood.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
