English Reference
noun

friendship

n.
US /ˈfɹɛndʃɪp/ UK /fɹˈɛndʃɪp/ friend·ship UK spelling friendship's, friendship's

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    the feeling or state of being friends with someone.

    the abstract state or condition of being friends; often used in an uncountable sense to describe the concept of mutual support.

    Simple

    Their friendship grew stronger over the years they spent working together.

    In context

    True friendship is often forged in the face of shared adversity, where mutual reliance becomes a necessity rather than a choice.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general concept.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    a particular relationship you have with a specific friend.

    a specific, countable relationship between two or more individuals characterized by mutual affection.

    Simple

    She formed many close friendships during her first year at university.

    In context

    The diplomat maintained several lifelong friendships with colleagues from across the globe, despite their differing political views.

    Usage

    Used as a countable noun when referring to individual connections.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    friendly feelings between different countries or groups of people.

    a state of goodwill or cooperation between nations, organisations, or large groups.

    Simple

    The festival was organized to promote friendship between the two cities.

    In context

    The treaty was signed as a gesture of enduring friendship, intended to stabilise the border regions after decades of intermittent conflict.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated