6 Special kind of friendships besides BFFs and frenemies
The New York Times recently delved into the ‘medium friend’ dilemma: those individuals who fall between the category of close confidant and mere acquaintance. How much of each other’s time and attention should you occupy? Is there a mismatch in how you both perceive the friendship?
While the problem itself might be less intriguing than the concept—especially considering the man who ranks his friends using a spreadsheet—it’s clear that we are increasingly aware of the role friendships play in our well-being and are becoming more deliberate in managing them. Perhaps it’s time to categorize our friendships as meticulously as Instagram users label their pantry items.
The term ‘medium’ seems somewhat bland, though, as we value people in our lives for unique and personal reasons. Beyond BFFs, frenemies, and work spouses, maybe you and your ‘brain twin’ have developed your own special classifications.
Play friend
A play friend is someone with whom you share a specific activity or hobby, much like young children might engage in play. This type of friendship is centered around enjoying shared interests such as capoeira, crochet, or playing games like Helldivers.
However, the relationship typically remains limited to these activities and does not extend beyond them. There is often no deep personal connection or emotional support involved—just a mutual enjoyment of the activity itself.
Chaos friend
A chaos friend is someone whose presence often turns your life into a whirlwind of unexpected events and disarray. Every encounter with them tends to leave you feeling disoriented, as if your usually orderly life has been upended.
Their visits are marked by a series of chaotic incidents—like sudden arguments, misplaced items, or bizarre situations that seem to unfold out of nowhere. Despite the chaos, such friendships can provide a stark contrast to the routine and predictability of your everyday life, making your own life seem more stable and even pleasantly dull in comparison.
Phone friend
A phone friend is someone with whom you maintain a significant and meaningful relationship primarily through digital communication. These relationships are sustained through texts, calls, and social media interactions, often existing solely within the confines of your phone or computer screen.
Despite the lack of physical presence, you can develop a deep emotional connection with someone who is represented only by an @ symbol and a picture of a Pomeranian or another avatar. The virtual nature of this friendship does not diminish its importance; rather, it highlights how modern technology allows us to forge and nurture bonds that can be just as profound as those developed in person.
Common-enemy friend
A common-enemy friend is someone with whom you have developed a strong bond through a shared disdain for a person or situation. This connection is forged in the fires of mutual annoyance or frustration, creating a unique camaraderie based on your united front against a common foe.
Whenever the object of your mutual irritation reappears, it often brings your friendship back into focus. Despite being rooted in negativity, these friendships can offer genuine support and connection, highlighting how shared experiences—whether positive or negative—can forge strong bonds.
Resting-bitch friendship
A resting-bitch friend is someone you turn to when you need to indulge in more critical, blunt, or harsh conversations. They have a tendency to be more abrasive or candid than you, providing a space where you can express frustrations or engage in mean-spirited banter without judgment.
This type of friend is often sought out for their no-nonsense attitude and their ability to handle unfiltered negativity. Engaging with a resting-bitch friend can be cathartic, offering a temporary relief for your pent-up emotions and a chance to vent without holding back. It’s important to recognize that while these friendships can provide a necessary outlet, they can also perpetuate a cycle of negativity.
Brief-encounter friend
A brief-encounter friend is someone with whom you shared a fleeting yet intense connection that left a lasting impression on both of you. There was a palpable sense of significance or chemistry during your interactions—perhaps a deep conversation, a moment of shared experience, or a strong mutual understanding.
These friendships often linger in memory as ‘what could have been’ scenarios. In different circumstances or alternate realities, this brief but powerful connection might have evolved into a profound and enduring relationship. Th impact of such an encounter can be significant, offering valuable insights into what you value in friendships and the kinds of connections you seek in your life.
