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I find it very odd when people say "BOYfriend" or "GIRLfriend" when that person is older than 40.
I agree. It always makes me think of Young Frankenstein when Frau Blucher (Neigh!) says, "He vass my boyfriend!" I prefer "lover" but that may be TMI lol.
I think that it's a combo of terminology that same sex couples used to use along with coming from Europe where long term committed but non-marital relationships are even more common than they are here. Esp. in middle and upper middle class couples, I find that in America, many couples live together prior to marriage but the majority do end up getting married whereas in Europe, a larger percentage tends to not take that step even once they buy a home and start having kids together. So partner gives a clearer indication that this is a long term committed relationship, not "just" a boy/girlfriend whose status might be more transitory.
And yes, some people like that it's gender and sexuality neutral, although with same sex marriage becoming legal in more and more places, that seems a little less relevant.
The problem I have with using the word "partner" for a romantic relationship is it is also the historical term for a business relationship. Until very recently, when you were introduced to someone's partner, you knew they were business partners and you could interact accordingly. Now when you hear the term, you have to guess from other cues which type and it can be awkward when you guess wrong.
Well, you can always use the U.S Census Bureau's designation: POSSLQ, pronounced posselque (Persons of Opposite Sex Sharing Living Quarters). "Hi! I'd like you to meet George, my POSSLQ!" "Your WHUUUT?"
I prefer SE (Spousal Equivalent).
My 91-year-old-mother and her long-time squeeze always referred to each other as "My Gentleman Friend" and "My Lady Friend".
Really? I've never heard ANY woman say they were a fiance or engaged unless they had a ring to show for it...to me and many others, that's synonymous and I'd probably blurt out "where's your ring?" if a woman tried it! A woman likely won't let a woman get by with that so most wouldn't try.
Really? I've never heard ANY woman say they were a fiance or engaged unless they had a ring to show for it...to me and many others, that's synonymous and I'd probably blurt out "where's your ring?" if a woman tried it! A woman likely won't let a woman get by with that so most wouldn't try.
Dang those people who have the nerve to consider themselves engaged without a ring.
My 91-year-old-mother and her long-time squeeze always referred to each other as "My Gentleman Friend" and "My Lady Friend".
I like this. I also picture anyone challenging them with: "but this is not your friend! Friend is platonic! Are you sleeping together? Seeing each other naked ever? Any kind of Sex or what could be described as sex? Then you may never call this person your friend." as being rude and petty. It's no one's place to decide what one will refer to someone as.
I'll stick with "Mr. Cuddlecatthumperbunny."
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