Scarleteen

So I have a non-binary friend who I like romantically, and who I’ve been told likes me back. It’s very likely that we’ll be officially together soon, because we’ve gone on a few maybe-dates-but-both-of-us-are-socially-awkward-and-don’t-want-to-say-the-word-date, and have come very close to asking the other person out a few times. I was just wondering what you call a non-binary person that you’re dating? Like, when you refer to them… an equivalent to “girlfriend” or “boyfriend”. I know someone who’s married to a non-binary person and she calls them her partner, but I think that’s a word for married people or people who’ve been together a really long time. Is there a word I’m missing ?

Hey a369 -- How exciting for you! I hope this relationship continues to blossom between you. If it does, it might be a good idea to have this conversation with them directly, because the most important thing will be using a term your friend feels comfortable with. Partner is a very popular gender neutral term, but if that sounds too formal some suggestions I have are significant other/S.O. and sweetie.

Seconding Carly's point that it's important to ask them what words they like, but wanted to also offer "theyfriend" as an option I hear used!

I have overheard people I am saying refer to me as “their Heather.” Or just say, “this person I’m seeing.”

Hi, thanks for all your suggestions - we made it official today so I’ll make sure to have that conversation with them and ask what words they like

Sounds great! Please let us know if you need any further assistance.