Keith Mack
The term in-law is often used to refer to the relatives of one's spouse, but it can also be used in a more casual sense to refer to the relatives of one's partner, especially in the context of polyamorous relationships. In this context, the term girlfriend-in-law or boyfriend-in-law can be used to refer to a friend's partner, especially when that friend is also dating your partner, creating a polyamorous dynamic. While this usage is not legally recognized, it reflects a growing trend of creating new terminology to describe complex relationship dynamics. Legally speaking, the terms boyfriend and girlfriend do not have a precise definition, and determining the existence of a de-facto relationship can be complicated, depending on various factors such as cohabitation, financial interdependence, and property ownership.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A term used for a "good" female friend who is closely related (e.g. sister, best friend, roommate) to your girlfriend |
| Usage | Used when one of your friends starts dating a girl and she becomes cool with you and starts conversating with you |
| Relationship with the term "boyfriend in law" | The male equivalent of the term "girlfriend in law" |
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What You'll Learn
- 'Girlfriend-in-law' and 'boyfriend-in-law' are terms used in polyamorous relationships
- In law, de-facto relationships are complicated to define
- 'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to a close female friend
- 'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to a friend's girlfriend
- 'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to another woman dating the same man
'Girlfriend-in-law' and 'boyfriend-in-law' are terms used in polyamorous relationships
Girlfriend-in-law and boyfriend-in-law are terms used to refer to a friend's partner or a partner's other partner in polyamorous relationships. Polyamory is defined as openly, honestly, and consensually loving and being committed to more than one person. In a polyamorous relationship, it is important to set mutual guidelines and boundaries to ensure a happy and healthy dynamic among all parties involved.
The term "girlfriend-in-law" can be used to refer to a friend's girlfriend or a partner's other girlfriend in a polyamorous relationship. It indicates a close association with the girlfriend, similar to the relationship between in-laws in a traditional family structure. This term suggests a level of acceptance and acknowledgment of the other girlfriend's presence in the relationship.
Similarly, the term "boyfriend-in-law" can be used in a polyamorous context to refer to a friend's boyfriend or a partner's other boyfriend. It conveys a similar dynamic of connection and recognition within the polyamorous relationship.
These terms are often used to navigate the complexities of polyamory, where multiple intimate relationships coexist. They provide a way to establish boundaries and define the nature of interactions within the relationship. By using terms like "girlfriend-in-law" and "boyfriend-in-law," individuals in polyamorous relationships can communicate their connections and set expectations with each other.
It is worth noting that the usage of these terms may vary among different individuals and communities. While they can be helpful in establishing clear relationships, the specific dynamics and agreements within each polyamorous arrangement may differ. Open communication and mutual consent are essential to maintaining healthy polyamorous relationships, and the use of terms like "girlfriend-in-law" and "boyfriend-in-law" can facilitate this process.
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In law, de-facto relationships are complicated to define
The term "in-law" is used to refer to someone who is a relative by marriage. Urban Dictionary, a crowd-sourced dictionary of slang terms, defines "girlfriend-in-law" as a term used for a female friend who is closely related to one's girlfriend, such as a sister or a best friend. It can also refer to the other girlfriend of a man who is dating multiple women.
Now, onto de-facto relationships. De facto is a Latin term that means "from fact" or "in practice." In law, a de facto relationship refers to a couple living together in a committed relationship, regardless of their sex. However, the legal definition of a de facto relationship varies across jurisdictions.
In Australia, a de facto relationship is a legally recognized committed relationship between two people, regardless of their sex, who live together on a "genuine domestic basis." It is important to note that de facto relationships do not include couples who are legally married or related by family. Since 2009, parties to an eligible de facto relationship that has ended can apply to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to have financial matters determined in the same way as married couples.
In South Australia, couples who wish to have their relationship formally recognized can register under the Relationships Register Act 2016 (SA). This ensures automatic legal recognition, even if the relationship does not meet the criteria of a de facto relationship. Registered relationships can be ended by either partner without proof of actual separation after 90 days of cooling off, whereas marriages require 12 months of separation.
De facto relationships can be complicated to define due to varying legal definitions across different jurisdictions. While some countries or states may recognize de facto relationships, others may not. Additionally, the criteria for what constitutes a de facto relationship may differ, such as the requirement to live together or the duration of the relationship.
In summary, while the term "girlfriend-in-law" may be used colloquially to refer to a close female friend or a romantic partner's other girlfriend, it does not carry a legal definition. On the other hand, de facto relationships are legally recognized in some jurisdictions, but the specific definition and requirements can vary, making it complicated to define universally.
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'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to a close female friend
The term "girlfriend-in-law" is used in a few different ways. One interpretation refers to a close female friend, such as a sister, best friend, or roommate, of one's girlfriend. In this context, "girlfriend-in-law" signifies a level of closeness and familiarity akin to that of familial relationships.
For example, if your friend starts dating a girl who becomes very friendly and easygoing with you, she could be referred to as a "girlfriend-in-law." This term conveys that she is now like a sister or close female friend to you, and you have a comfortable and amicable relationship with her.
However, the term "girlfriend-in-law" can also take on a different meaning in certain contexts. In some non-monogamous or polyamorous relationships, "girlfriend-in-law" may refer to a metamour or a partner's other girlfriend. In this case, the term signifies a connection through a shared partner rather than a close friendship.
It's worth noting that the usage of "girlfriend-in-law" can vary depending on personal preference and the specific dynamics of a relationship. Some people may find the term playful or endearing, while others may prefer more straightforward language to describe their relationships.
Overall, while "girlfriend-in-law" can be used to describe a close female friend, it's important to consider the context and the intentions of the person using the term to fully understand its meaning.
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'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to a friend's girlfriend
The term "girlfriend-in-law" can refer to a friend's girlfriend. It is used to describe a situation where one of your friends starts dating a girl, and she gets along with you. In this context, the girl becomes as close to you as a sister or a best friend. However, it is important to note that the term "girlfriend-in-law" can also have other meanings and interpretations.
One interpretation of "girlfriend-in-law" is when a person is dating someone who already has a girlfriend, or when they are being cheated on by their partner with another girl. In this case, the other girlfriend is referred to as the "girlfriend-in-law". This term is used regardless of whether the two girls get along or not.
Another interpretation of "girlfriend-in-law" is when a person has an emotional connection with a girl but cannot act on it physically due to certain circumstances, such as her being in a relationship with someone else. In this context, the term is used to describe a close platonic relationship.
It is worth noting that the term "girlfriend-in-law" is also used jokingly or ironically, especially in situations where there is a level of discomfort or awkwardness in the relationship dynamics. For example, it can be used when a person is dating the same person as their friend, creating a complicated and potentially tense situation.
Overall, while "girlfriend-in-law" can refer to a friend's girlfriend, it is a slang term with various interpretations and nuances depending on the context and the speaker's intention. It is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner to describe complex or uncomfortable relationship dynamics.
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'Girlfriend-in-law' can refer to another woman dating the same man
The term "girlfriend-in-law" is used in a few different ways, one of which refers to another woman dating the same man. In this context, "girlfriend-in-law" is used to describe a situation where a person is dating a man who is also dating another woman or women. This term is often used in a joking or lighthearted manner, as in the example, "I just met the girl who is dating Nick, the same Nick that I am dating, she's my 'Girlfriend-In-Law'".
The term "girlfriend-in-law" can also refer to a close female friend who is related to one's girlfriend. For example, "Dude, you're dating Lindsay, but I saw you with Britney. It's cool; Brit's my girlfriend-in-law". This usage of the term highlights a level of comfort and familiarity with the friend of one's partner.
In some cases, "girlfriend-in-law" can also refer to a girl with whom one has an emotional connection but cannot engage in physical intimacy due to circumstances or her being in a relationship. For instance, "I'm off to see my girlfriend-in-law. We're going for a beer and maybe some cuddling on the beach".
While the term is often used in a humorous or casual manner, it is worth noting that it can be considered inappropriate or disrespectful in certain contexts, especially if it involves cheating or deception.
The term "girlfriend-in-law" has also been discussed in the context of polyamory, where it has been suggested as a way to refer to a "meta," or a partner of one's partner. However, some people find this usage confusing or cringeworthy.
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Frequently asked questions
The term "girlfriend-in-law" is used for a *"good" female friend* who is closely related to your girlfriend (e.g. sister, best friend, roommate). It can also refer to your boyfriend's other girlfriend or multiple girlfriends.
The term "girlfriend-in-law" is believed to have originated from urban slang and has gained popularity through platforms like Urban Dictionary and Reddit.
No, the term "girlfriend-in-law" is not a legal term and does not have any specific legal meaning or implications. It is simply a slang expression used in casual conversation.
A "girlfriend" typically refers to a romantic partner, while a "girlfriend-in-law" is used for a close female friend or a friend's girlfriend. The term implies a platonic relationship without any sexual or romantic involvement.
Yes, the term ""boyfriend-in-law" has been used in a similar context, especially in polyamorous relationships or situations where individuals refer to their loved ones in non-traditional ways.
