So, what term would you use?

[BTM]

I remember reading an article weeks ago in USA Today about how many people in various rings of society (mostly women, I'd bet) were in a bit of a quandary as to what to call the person they're currently involved with (but, obviously, not married to.)  Normally, the term would have been "boyfriend" or "girlfriend", but apparently, it's the opinion among many these sound way too "high schoolish".  Personally, I didn't know this was a subject of such concern among certain peoples, but I don't get invited to too many parties. 

A few terms were being suggested like "significant other", "partner" and such.  In Europe, they frequently use the term "lover" but many here in the U.S. seem to feel that's a bit "strong" for everyday use.  I supposed that "Love of my life" (LOML?) is probably too long and corny, while, "The person I'm currently f**king" probably takes all romance out of the situation.

Now, of course, we all know about FOB (friends with benefits), that is, when two people are friends, have sex on occasion for fun, but neither expect nor want any commitments to each other.  Honestly, I don't really see how one could be friends with somebody, have sex with them regularly, and be perfectly comfortable with the idea they're seeing other people as well as yourself, but hey, I'm a boring person.  Anyway, that's hardly relevant as I don't think FOB quite encapsulates the relationship at hand, so it's out. 

Personally, I can't think of any terms to suggest (well, none that are remotely appropriate anyway) plus I'm probably too lonely and bitter right now to even take the subject completely seriously (as you've already guessed).

How about you guys?  Any suggestions?

[LilCerberus]

I'm still trying to figure out what separates the munchies from a big mac attack.

[meQal]

Try "Person I Came With" at your next party. It's a truthful term that doesn't say anything about the nature of your relationship other than you arrived with them at the event.

[3mnkids]

Boyfriend/girlfriend to me sounds childish. Why cant people just say this is my date? or when asked if they are dating just say yes im seeing someone? Significant other is a good one, partner, lover... I have been married for 16 years so thankfully this isnt really an issue for me.   

[Newt]

Why cant people just say this is my date? or when asked if they are dating just say yes im seeing someone?

Exactly.  Why does it seem that the moment someone goes on a date they immediately have to be labelled as being "in a relationship"?  I suppose it has to do with the assumption that they will be having sex on that first date?  I must be very old-fashioned, but it seems more of a potential relationship to me.  "Dating" is not necessarily a "boyfriend/girlfriend" level of closeness.


(*edited for spelling only - sorry!)

[Doggett]

That 'lover' stuff is nonsense !


Yet another piece of people being misinformed about us Europeans.....

Usually only married or engaged couples say that !
Only under exceptional circumstances do people call each other 'lover'. We don't use it 'frequently'!!


Partner if fine...not very romantic, though. Girlfriend is a little childish, but kinda sweet.

[Jack]

"Victim" would be my suggestion.

[The Burgomaster]

Try these:

"I'd like you to meet my . . . "

* Slam Piece
* Pump
* Ho

[trekgeezer]

Is "the ol' ball and chain" appropriate?

[ghouck]

Affectionately, I use the term "Gutterslut" . . .

[Mr. DS]

I've always liked "my old lady". 

[Saucerman]

My girlfriend and I generally use "boyfriend" and "girlfriend."  Though I'm trying to popularize the replacements "Spanking dispenser" and "Spanking recipient."

[venomx]

I always used "girl friend" or "my girl". Now it's "BALL AND CHAIN". 

[Doggett]

Affectionately, I use the term "Gutterslut" . . .

Enjoying sinlge life are we, ghouck ?

[Doggett]

Personally, I can't think of any terms to suggest plus I'm probably too lonely and bitter right now to even take the subject completely seriously (as you've already guessed).

Oh, don't be lonely !

You've always got us !