Definitions
- Referring to a woman who is in a romantic relationship with a man who is already married or committed to someone else. - Describing a mistress who is financially supported by her lover. - Talking about a woman who is the primary partner of a man, but not legally recognized as such.
- Referring to a lover, especially one who is involved in an extramarital affair. - Describing a person who is romantically involved with someone who is already in a committed relationship. - Talking about a secret lover who is kept hidden from others.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to a romantic relationship outside of marriage or commitment.
- 2Both words imply secrecy and discretion.
- 3Both words can have negative connotations.
- 4Both words are used to describe a person who is not the primary partner in a relationship.
What is the difference?
- 1Gender: Maitresse specifically refers to a female lover, while paramour can refer to either gender.
- 2Financial support: Maitresse can imply that the woman is financially supported by her lover, while paramour does not necessarily carry that connotation.
- 3Legal recognition: Maitresse implies that the woman is not legally recognized as a partner, while paramour does not necessarily carry that connotation.
- 4Connotation: Maitresse can have a more negative connotation than paramour, which can be used in a more neutral or even positive context.
Remember this!
Maitresse and paramour are both words used to describe a romantic relationship outside of marriage or commitment. However, maitresse specifically refers to a female lover who may be financially supported by her partner and is not legally recognized as a partner. Paramour, on the other hand, can refer to either gender and does not necessarily carry those connotations.