Vocabulary word copaine instead of petite amie

Question

HI,I was wondering there was a sentence above ma petite amie est canadienne how come you use petite amie for girlfriend and not ma copaine?ThanksNicole

Accepted Answer

Hi Nicole, 
1. the feminine of copain is copine  and not copaine 
2. petit/e ami/e is boy or girl friend (in a relationship)
3. copain/copine is just a friend/ mate/ buddy 
But I couldn't find the actual sentence in the lesson pinned.
Hope this helps!

Answer

Hi Nicole,Perhaps one of the French ladies will comment, but my understanding is that "copine" is a friend, partner (serious), buddy, maybe girlfriend (colloquial)Whereas "petite amie" --> girlfriend.There is more here:  https://forum.wordreference.com/threads/copain-copine-petit-ami-petite-amie.109810/Hope this helps.Jim

Answer

Thank you both it is very helpful