Romantic/Passionate:
* Beloved: Implies deep affection and longing.
* Sweetheart: A more playful and affectionate term.
* Partner: A more modern and neutral term for a romantic relationship.
* Significant other: A general term for a romantic partner.
* Spouse: Used for a legally married partner.
* Flame: Suggests a passionate and perhaps fleeting relationship.
* Darling: An affectionate and intimate term.
* Honey: A term of endearment, often used playfully.
* My better half: Implies a deep connection and shared life.
Informal/Affectionate:
* Boo: A playful and endearing term.
* Baby: Often used affectionately, but can be a bit casual.
* Sweetie: A term of endearment, often used playfully.
Formal/Literary:
* Adorer: Suggests intense admiration and devotion.
* Courtier: Implies a romantic pursuit, often in a historical context.
* Suitor: A person seeking to marry someone.
* Amant(e): French term for lover, often used in a literary context.
Other:
* Friend: If the relationship is platonic and not romantic.
* Companion: If the relationship is based on shared activities and interests.
* Acquaintance: If the relationship is casual and not very close.
* Crush: If you have strong feelings for someone but haven't acted on them.
It's important to consider the context of your writing or conversation when choosing a synonym for "lover." What tone and level of formality are you aiming for? What specific relationship dynamics are you trying to convey?