Why do g*y people always use the word partner and not boyfriend or girlfriend?

Question

I guess the age thing never really registered as a reason, i just always feel like my aunt is off to play tennis when she uses the word partner. thanks for the feedback

Answer 1

I use the word partner because we are in a relationship, live with each other and our relationship is deeper than a BF scenario. Besides I would feel a little foolish calling my Partner my BF at 57 years of age.

There is no confusion when we introduce each other as we also wear identical rings on our left hand where the traditional wedding band is worn.

The term is widely used here in Canada. When we get married later this year I shall refer to him as my spouse.

Answer 2

yeah i don't like it. partner just sounds like an aquintance, or something.

Answer 3

I think they do it to be politically correct.  I honestly think it's out of respect.  My mom uses it a lot even though I would rather her say "girlfriend" but if that is what she is comfortable with than I will take it.

Answer 4

Boyfriend and girlfriend are terms that usually apply to young love - high schoolers and college-aged.  It also gets used when you're first dating, but when the relationship gets serious another word needs to be used.  We can't go with husband/wife (obviously), so partner is used, as is significant other (but that's too long).

Answer 5

Because we are not 12 years old! And my partner is not a girl she is a woman!

L

Answer 6

it is because their relationship is deeper then just bf and gf...

Answer 7

Boyfriend/Girlfriend sounds... juvenile, to say the least. Partner, methinks, is a much more adult way of referring to the person you're courting.

Answer 8

Good question!

I don't say it. I find it to be a little weird.

When people say 'my life partner' -- it makes me cringe a bit.

Not sure why.

I prefer to say girlfriend.

Answer 9

A lot depends on the situation, of who or where I am talking.  I call him BF, partner, husband.

I think when we were dating I referred to him as BF more then I do now, since we are partners, and husbands.  

Answer 10

when i hear partner, i think of someone they work with. so i agree. i like boyfriend. or just say "friend".  

Answer 11

the important thing is the essence of the relationship and not the label.  if we were used using the word partner to describe love and intimacy there would no wonders.  nevertheless, in a str8 world with str8 values and terminology we have to describe our own, think about a little, do we want to imitate and be like the ones who created terms,meanings, religions and values suiting what they believe is right when it is obvious  they have made so many mistakes in the human factor.  i have no problem calling my love a partner as long as he is my LOVE and i am his.