romance
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romance
An emotional and often passionate romantic relationship or love story between two people.
Die beiden hatten im Urlaub eine kurze, aber intensive Romanze.
The two of them had a brief but intense romance while on vacation.
The word 'Romanze' (romance) is closely related to 'der Roman' (novel). Both terms come from stories. At its core, a romance is a special kind of story that focuses on love and feelings, whether in real life, in a book, or in music.
Ihre Lebensgeschichte klingt wie ein Roman mit einer traurigen Romanze.
Her life story sounds like a novel with a sad romance.
The context reveals the meaning: If it is about the relationship between two people, it means the love affair. If people are talking about books or films, it refers to the genre. In connection with composers or concerts, it refers to the piece of music.
Im Film geht es um die Romanze zwischen einem Piloten und einer Ärztin.
The film is about the romance between a pilot and a doctor.
When it refers to a romantic relationship, 'Romanze' (romance) is often used with the verbs 'haben' (to have), 'erleben' (to experience), or 'beginnen' (to begin). Typical adjectives are 'kurz' (brief), 'intensiv' (intense), 'heimlich' (secret), or 'romantisch' (romantic).
Auf ihrer Reise durch Italien erlebte sie eine unerwartete Romanze.
On her trip through Italy, she experienced an unexpected romance.
affair
'die Affäre' and 'die Romanze' can both mean a romantic relationship. The difference is mainly in the tone and the situation. 'Affäre' often sounds secret, problematic, or morally difficult, especially if someone is already married or in a committed relationship. 'Romanze' sounds more emotional, romantic, and often more positive. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with love. If you mean secrecy or a scandal, 'Affäre' fits better. If you want to emphasize the romantic side, 'Romanze' is more natural.
Aus der kurzen Begegnung im Urlaub wurde eine schöne Romanze.
The brief encounter on vacation turned into a beautiful romance.
Im Büro spricht niemand offen über die Affäre des Chefs.
No one in the office talks openly about the boss's affair.