man and wife

Friendly

Word: Man and Wife

Definition: The phrase "man and wife" refers to two people who are married to each other. It is often used to describe a couple in a formal or traditional way.

Usage Instructions:

• This phrase is commonly used in formal contexts, such as wedding ceremonies or official documents.
• It emphasizes the legal and social bond between a husband (man) and wife (woman).

Example:

• "After their wedding ceremony, they were declared man and wife, ready to start their new life together."

Advanced Usage:

• In some literary or poetic contexts, "man and wife" may be used to highlight the romantic or emotional bond between the couple, even if it is not explicitly stated.

Word Variants:

• Married Couple: A more modern and neutral term to refer to two people who are married.
• Husband and Wife: Directly refers to the roles within the marriage.

Different Meanings:

• While "man and wife" specifically refers to a married couple, it can also imply traditional views on marriage, sometimes suggesting a lack of emotional connection if used in a certain context (e.g., "a married couple without love").

Synonyms:

• Couple: A general term for two people in a relationship, not necessarily married.
• Spouses: A formal term for husband and wife, emphasizing their roles in marriage.

Idioms:

• "To tie the knot": This idiom means to get married.

  • Example: "After dating for five years, they decided to tie the knot."

• "Better half": This term is often used to refer to one's spouse in an affectionate way.

  • Example: "I couldn't have done it without my better half."

Phrasal Verbs:

• Settle down: This phrasal verb means to get married and start a family or to establish a stable life.
  • Example: "After traveling the world, he decided to settle down with his girlfriend."

Academic

Noun

1. two people who are married to each other
   • his second marriage was happier than the first
   • a married couple without love

Synonyms

• marriage
• married couple