Original Content:

In the ever-evolving digital age, the concept of a pen pal has taken on new dimensions. While traditionally, a pen pal referred to someone with whom you exchanged letters by post, the term has adapted to modern times. In 2019, the English equivalent might be more aligned with the idea of digital correspondence. People often use terms like "online buddy" or "digital correspondent" to describe these relationships. These phrases encapsulate the essence of maintaining connections through emails, social media, or messaging apps, reflecting the shift from physical mail to virtual communication channels.

This transformation highlights how language evolves to mirror societal changes, blending old traditions with contemporary practices. Thus, while "pen pal" still holds relevance, newer expressions provide a clearer depiction of the modern experience.