This article explores the different terms used in Japanese to refer to one's lover or significant other. It covers the formal term Aishiteru (愛してる) which translates to "I love you", Koibito (恋人) which translates to "lover", Otome (乙女) which translates to "maiden" and Kanojo (彼女) which translates to "she", as well as the more informal Tomodachi (友達) which translates to "friend". Each word carries its own connotations and nuances depending on how it is said and who is saying it.