Romance
UK /["/rəʊˈmæns//ˈrəʊmæns/"]/US /["/ˈrəʊmæns/"]/
Definition
an exciting, usually short, relationship between two people who are in love with each other
In simple words: A close relationship between two people that includes love.
Examples
- The novel is a beautiful portrayal of romance between two characters from different worlds.
- Their romance blossomed during the summer they spent traveling together.
- The medieval romance involved knights, chivalry, and heroic deeds.
- He wrote a romance about the adventures of a brave knight rescuing a princess.
- Romance novels often focus on love stories with emotional and dramatic elements.
- There is a certain romance to living by the sea, with the sound of waves and salty air.
- She enjoys the romance of old cities with cobblestone streets and historic charm.
- The romance genre in film attracts audiences who love heartfelt emotional stories.
Usage notes
Use 'romance' for both serious and casual relationships. It’s appropriate in conversations about love, but may seem too formal for casual chats among friends.
Grammar pattern
romance + object
Memory hint
Think of a romantic movie — where love stories unfold!
Collocations
- brief
- broken
- whirlwind
- have
- begin
- start
- blossom
- begin
- end
- true
- interracial
- find
- be in the air
- bloom
- love and romance
Synonyms
- love
- affection
- passion
- intimacy
- attachment
Antonyms
- indifference
- dislike
- aversion
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'romantic', which describes a style or mood rather than the relationship itself.
- Used as a verb; 'romance' is primarily a noun in standard usage.
- Misunderstood in contexts of friendship; not all close friendships involve romance.