Formal:
* 最好的朋友 (zuì hǎo de péngyou) - This is the most literal translation and is suitable for formal situations. It means "best friend."
* 挚友 (zhì yǒu) - This is a more literary term for "best friend" and is often used in writing or speeches. It conveys a deeper, more intimate bond.
Informal:
* 死党 (sǐ dǎng) - This is a more colloquial term for "best friend" and is often used between close friends. It literally means "death party" and is meant to convey the idea of loyalty and unwavering friendship.
* 好哥们 (hǎo gē men) - This is a common term used for male best friends. It literally means "good brothers" and emphasizes the strong brotherhood between friends.
* 好姐妹 (hǎo jiě mèi) - This is the female equivalent of "好哥们" and is used for female best friends. It literally means "good sisters."
The best way to choose the right term is to consider the context and your relationship with the person you're referring to.