intimate friends

USAGE SUMMARY

"intimate friends" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a close and personal friendship between two individuals. Here is an example of how it could be used in a sentence: "Even though they had only known each other for a short time, they quickly became intimate friends, sharing their deepest thoughts and secrets with one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

She has no intimate friends.

The New York Times - Books

Boufflers and Hume quickly became intimate friends.

The New York Times

Death is about the surviving, grieving family and intimate friends.

The New York Times

They are just good (albeit possibly intimate) friends.

The Guardian - Money

She sees only intimate friends, usually theatrical people.

The New Yorker

First names were for close relatives, intimate friends and for when addressing subordinates.

The Economist

Beside his children and wife, he seems to have only two intimate friends.

The New Yorker

"While he was convalescing," explained Father Teixera, "we became intimate friends.

The Economist

Matisse's intimate friends among artists were mostly easygoing minor painters, such as Albert Marquet.

The New Yorker

She will be sorely missed by her family, her many, many intimate friends and colleagues.

The New York Times

Boufflers and Hume quickly became intimate friends, visiting and writing to each other often.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intimate friends" to describe relationships characterized by deep trust, emotional connection, and shared personal experiences. It conveys a stronger bond than "close friends".

Common error

Avoid using "intimate friends" in highly formal or professional settings where a more neutral term like "close colleagues" or "trusted associates" might be more appropriate. The word "intimate" can sometimes imply a level of personal closeness that is not suitable for all situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimate friends" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies individuals who share a close, personal, and trusting relationship. As Ludwig AI suggests, the expression is correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intimate friends" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that describes close, personal relationships. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression. It appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, conveying a sense of deep trust and shared experiences. While versatile, it's best to avoid it in highly formal or professional settings where neutrality is paramount. Consider alternatives like "close companions" or "dearest friends" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid overuse in formal contexts for a more professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close companions

Emphasizes companionship and shared experiences, suggesting a strong bond.

dearest friends

Highlights affection and value placed on the friendship, indicating a deep emotional connection.

bosom buddies

An informal term suggesting a very close and affectionate friendship, often from childhood.

confidants

Focuses on the aspect of trust and sharing secrets, highlighting the intimate nature of the relationship.

best pals

A more casual term for close friends, often used to describe friendships characterized by loyalty and fun.

soulmates (platonic)

Suggests a deep, spiritual connection without romantic implications, emphasizing a profound understanding and affinity.

thick as thieves

An idiom indicating a very close and inseparable friendship, often implying shared adventures or mischief.

inner circle

Refers to a select group of close and trusted friends, highlighting exclusivity and deep connection.

personal confidantes

Highlights the trusted role friends play in keeping secrets and providing support.

old cronies

Describes long-standing friendships, emphasizing shared history and enduring bonds, often among older individuals.

FAQs

How can I use "intimate friends" in a sentence?

You can use "intimate friends" to describe close, personal relationships. For example: "She only shares her deepest secrets with her most intimate friends".

What are some alternatives to saying "intimate friends"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "close companions", "dearest friends", or "bosom buddies".

What distinguishes "intimate friends" from "casual acquaintances"?

"Intimate friends" share a deep emotional connection, trust, and personal history, while casual acquaintances are individuals you know and interact with on a superficial level without such deep bonds.

Is it appropriate to use "intimate friends" in professional writing?

While grammatically correct, using "intimate friends" in professional writing may not always be appropriate. Consider using more neutral terms like "close colleagues" or "trusted associates" depending on the context.