Frenemy
Meaning: Someone who acts like a friend but is also a rival, or who quietly works against you.
A frenemy blends “friend” and “enemy” into one. It describes someone who acts friendly but secretly competes with you, undermines you, or judges you. Example: “She’s friendly in meetings, but she’s really a frenemy.”
How to use it
It’s a blend of “friend” and “enemy.” People use it for classmates, coworkers or even companies that are friendly on the surface but competitive underneath. It’s informal and a little humorous, so it fits conversation, social media and light news writing. The plural is “frenemies.”
Examples
- She’s more of a frenemy than a friend. She always compares her grades to mine.
- The two tech companies are frenemies: partners on some projects, rivals on others.
- I stopped telling my frenemy about my plans.
A common mistake
It’s spelled frenemy, not “friendemy” or “frienemy.” And it’s a noun, so say “he’s a frenemy,” not “he’s very frenemy.”
Say it out loud
Tabbi Daily gives you one short lesson like this every day. Listen, record yourself and hear how you sound. Free, no account needed.
Source: PACER Center