Does Calling Your Partner Your Best Friend Suggest a Lack of Commitment in the Relationship?

Nope. My husband is my best friend, and we do things together and enjoy being together. After almost 50 years, does that count as commitment?

The Complexity of Relationship Dynamics

On the whole, yes, but it is too simple to put it that way. The component parts of both need to be understood and addressed.

Maybe: many are partners but only in a romantic way. I would rather the friend part be more than the romantic part. A nice blend of the two is best.

My partner and best friend began as my scuba instructor, then a teaching colleague at my college. So, we were friends first. If you feel your relationship is 'shortened,' then do prepare yourself to understand that it may not be as strong on the other person’s side as it is on yours.

The Importance of Verbal and Action Consistency

Don't get hung up on the words… and people have their own definitions of 'best friend.' Ever see posts on this forum from women talking about partners or spouses verbally and physically abusing them, cheating on them multiple times, and they write ‘what do I do, I love him.’ You got to wonder what their definition of love is.

He may seem cute, provide a roof over your head, food in your stomach, and gifts. But that's not what true love is. To answer this question – lack of commitment will be shown in actions, not words.

A Look at the Definitions of Friendship

"There is no such thing as a stupid question."

Wrong! There is most definitely such a thing as a stupid question, and this is an example of one.

In what universe would me calling my wife my best friend suggest that I’m not committed to her?

According to Webster's Dictionary of the English Language 1828, the non-obscure definitions of friendship are:

FRIENDSHIP

noun 1. An attachment to a person proceeding from intimate acquaintance and a reciprocation of kind offices or from a favorable opinion of the amiable and respectable qualities of his mind. Friendship differs from benevolence, which is good will to mankind in general, and from that love which springs from animal appetite. True friendship is a noble and virtuous attachment, springing from a pure source, a respect for worth or amiable qualities. False friendship may subsist between bad men as between thieves and pirates. This is a temporary attachment springing from interest and may change in a moment to enmity and rancor.

There can be no friendship without confidence and no confidence without integrity. There is little friendship in the world. The first law of friendship is sincerity. 2. Mutual attachment, intimacy.

If not in friendship live at least in peace.

"A noble and virtuous attachment springing from a pure source, a respect for worth or amiable qualities." That sounds a whole lot like what I'd think everyone wants from a spouse. Including the "attachment" bit, which sounds a whole lot like it's related to "commitment."

Conclusion

Calling your partner your best friend is not a sign of a lack of commitment. It reflects trust, mutual respect, and a deep emotional connection. These qualities are just as essential in a committed relationship as any other form of dedication.

Further Reading

How to Maintain a Deep Friendship in a Relationship Understanding Commitment in Modern Relationships Advice for Couples Dealing with Trust Issues

By recognizing and valuing these aspects in your relationship, you can strengthen your bond and foster a deep and meaningful connection that goes beyond just romantic love.