Boyfriend

From ArticleWorld

The term boyfriend is a somewhat modern one. Previously, it implied an extramarital sexual or romantic relationship. Now, however, it is free of these negative implications. This term of endearment is primarily used as a way of identify a part of a couple once they are in a committed and monogamous relationship.

Who is a boyfriend?

Typically, “boyfriend,” is used to refer to a young man or boy in a short-term relationship, as older partners are often described as “significant others.” Members in long-term relationships often use “significant other” or “partner,” both gender-neutral terms, to describe the nature of their commitment. A partner generally receives “boyfriend” status once both members of the couple have determined that they are compatible, are attracted to each other and have similar hopes for the future. This couple believes that they have the potential to succeed in a long-term relationship.

Although in the Western world, the term “boyfriend” is used almost solely among those in a romantic relationship, it is a term used to describe male friends in Japan, regardless of the speaker’s gender. (The proper way to refer to one’s male romantic partner in Japan is kareshi. The same applies to the use of the word “girlfriend.”

When it doesn’t work

Countless material is written in women’s magazines – and gay men’s magazines – about meeting (or keeping) a boyfriend. Endless jokes are made on the subject. And countless hours are spent over coffee, ice cream or wine discussing and analyzing a man’s “boyfriend material.” If his potential is not deemed appropriate, he will often be demoted to an ex-boyfriend, or loose his monogamous status.