I think you might mean "coupledom" or "couplehood," which refer to the state or condition of being a couple. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Partnership
- Meaning: A relationship between two people who work together as a team, often with a shared purpose or commitment. For example, "Their partnership in business has been very successful over the years."
- Usage difference: "Partnership" has a broader application and can be used in various contexts like business, life, or projects. In comparison to "coupledom," it doesn't specifically imply a romantic connection. While a couple is in a kind of partnership in their relationship, "partnership" can refer to non-romantic collaborations too. For example, two lawyers might have a professional partnership, whereas "coupledom" is strictly about the state of being a romantic couple.
2. Union
- Meaning: The act of joining or combining two things or people together, or the state of being joined. In the context of relationships, it can refer to the coming together of two people in a committed way. For example, "Their union was celebrated with a beautiful wedding ceremony."
- Usage difference: "Union" emphasizes the idea of coming together and being united. It can have a more formal or official connotation compared to "coupledom." For example, when talking about marriage, we might refer to a couple's union as a legally binding and formal joining. "Coupledom" is a more informal term that describes the general state and experiences of being a couple, whether they are married or just in a committed relationship.
3. Relationship
- Meaning: The way in which two or more people or things are connected, or the state of being connected. For example, "They have a very loving relationship."
- Usage difference: "Relationship" is a very general term that can cover all kinds of connections between people. In comparison to "coupledom," it doesn't specifically focus on the state of being a couple. It could refer to friendships, family ties, or professional associations. "Coupledom" is more specific to romantic pairs and implies the unique aspects, experiences, and dynamics that come with being a couple.
4. Pairing
- Meaning: The combination or arrangement of two people or things together. For example, "The pairing of the two actors in the movie was a brilliant choice."
- Usage difference: "Pairing" emphasizes the act of putting two together or the state of them being together. It's more about the combination aspect. In contrast to "coupledom," it doesn't carry the emotional and lifestyle connotations that being a couple implies. For example, we can talk about a pairing of colors in a design, or a pairing of players in a sports team, while "coupledom" is strictly about the state of two people in a romantic relationship.