l’amant

The French word "amant" means "lover" and refers to a person who is romantically or sexually involved with someone, often in a discreet or extramarital context.

Meaning:

• Usually implies a romantic and/or sexual relationship.
• Often used when the relationship is secret or outside of marriage.
• The feminine form is "amante" for a female lover.

Synonyms and differences:

• amant/amante: Specifically denotes a romantic/sexual partner, often with a nuance of secrecy or illicit relationship.
• compagnon/compagne: Means partner or companion, usually implying a stable, recognized couple but not necessarily married (more formal and socially accepted).
• petit ami / petite amie: Translates as "boyfriend" or "girlfriend," typically used for dating partners in a more formal or socially acceptable relationship.
• amoureux/amoureuse: Means someone who is in love; it stresses the emotional state more than the liaison itself.
• mari / femme: Means "husband" and "wife," indicating officially married partners rather than just lovers.

In summary, "amant" carries a slightly more secretive or possibly illicit connotation than general terms for a partner or boyfriend/girlfriend.