Introduced me as his friend

Anonymous
I’ve been dating a guy for 6 months. We’ve been exclusive for 4 months. We spend a lot of time together and get along great. He recently invited me to a party with some of his old friends. There were people there I’ve never met and he introduced me as his friend. This really bugged me. Am I being ridiculous about this? It was clear we weee more than platonic as he showed affection throughout the night. We are in our 40s. Does this type of thing just not matter anymore?
Anonymous
You’re being ridiculous.

What did you want? “Girlfriend” maybe? To some grown adults that sounds a little like high school.
Anonymous
If he showed affection then it doesn't sound like he was ashamed or anything. Maybe he just didn't know what to call you? Girlfriend probably sounds silly to him at this age (is this his first time dating after a long relationship?). Partner sounds a lot more serious than a four month relationship. How would you have wanted to be introduced?
Anonymous
A lot of people have strong opinions about the word “girlfriend” being used past a certain age. You are a woman, not a girl.
“Friend” is appropriate along with subtle signs of physical affection that indicate that you are in a relationship,
Anonymous
I don't get the pp's. The word is girlfriend, not friend so I do think it's weird.
Anonymous
Man here. Calling a woman in her 40's a "GIRLfriend" sounds a bit odd. I can see why he didn't use the term.

Find something more substantive to be mad about.
Anonymous
I say its about time to communicate and figure it out. Are you someone he is dating, a female friend with benefits , a partner, a potential partner?
Anonymous
Normally I would say that you had every right to be miffed at this - but considering he was very affectionate toward you while in their company, then I wouldn’t think twice about this one.
Anonymous
You're right OP. But girlfriend isn't the right word, he should have introduced you like this: "This is Larla my friend with benefits."
Anonymous
Anonymous wrote:I’ve been dating a guy for 6 months. We’ve been exclusive for 4 months. We spend a lot of time together and get along great. He recently invited me to a party with some of his old friends. There were people there I’ve never met and he introduced me as his friend. This really bugged me. Am I being ridiculous about this? It was clear we weee more than platonic as he showed affection throughout the night. We are in our 40s. Does this type of thing just not matter anymore?


You just called him "a guy" OP, you didn't call him "boyfriend" and you didn't even call him s "friend". He's just "a guy" to you. Until someone better comes along. This is just an extended-stay hookup.

Why do you care if some "guy" you're banging calls you his "friend"? There is no real commitment here on either side.

In another six months you each will each be bringing other people to parties. It's silly to pretend otherwise.
Anonymous
If you were walking down the street and ran into one of his guy friends, the “ friend” introduction might seem ambiguous. BUT, he brought you to a function so it clear to me you are more than friends. Body language is important here too. Was he touchy-freely to you? For example, his arm at your back or shoulder when introducing you.
Anonymous
Yeah, you’re right. He should’ve called you his girlfriend. You’re definitely acting like a girl right now, and not a woman.
Anonymous
You’re being silly.
Anonymous
OP here. I guess I’m overacting. To me saying friend sounds like FWB or until you meet the next chick. It’s better to just say the persons name and show affection. Friend is also disingenuous because we are not friends.
Anonymous
You’re in your 40s. Girlfriend sounds juvenile, lady friend sounds precious. I think he’s being considerate.

I guess just tell him your preference?
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