Dating-app slang & abbreviations

BF and GF

AlsoBFGFboyfriendgirlfriend

Definition

Common short forms of "boyfriend" (BF) and "girlfriend" (GF), used in messages, posts and dating profiles.

At a glance

  • BF means boyfriend and GF means girlfriend.
  • Common in texts, captions and profiles.
  • "GF" can also mean gluten-free in other contexts.
  • "Partner" is a common gender-neutral alternative.

In detail

You will see these in phrases such as "my BF", "looking for a GF" or "no BF". On a dating profile, "has a GF" may signal an open or polyamorous arrangement, so it is worth reading the rest of the profile or asking.

Outside dating, "GF" can also mean gluten-free, so context matters. Many people use the gender-neutral "partner" instead.

In a sentence

  • Out for dinner with my BF tonight.
  • Her profile says she has a GF and they are open, so I asked how that works for them.

Common questions

What does "partnered" mean compared with having a BF or GF?

"Partnered" is a broader, gender-neutral way to say someone is in a relationship. BF and GF name a specific kind of partner.

Related terms