What is the Difference Between Wife and Girlfriend?

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The main difference between a wife and a girlfriend lies in the legal and commitment aspects of the relationship. Here are some key differences:

  1. Legal Status: A wife is the female partner in a marriage, while a girlfriend is not married to her partner. A wife has legal rights and responsibilities, whereas a girlfriend does not.
  2. Commitment: A wife is typically more committed to her partner and their relationship, as they have made a lifelong promise to each other through marriage. A girlfriend, on the other hand, may not have the same level of commitment, as the relationship is not legally binding.
  3. Responsibilities: A wife often takes on more responsibilities in the relationship, such as managing the household, raising children, and supporting her partner. A girlfriend may not have the same level of responsibility, as the relationship is not legally binding.
  4. Expectations: Society often has different expectations for wives and girlfriends. For example, a wife is expected to cook, feed, take care of, earn, advise, and plan decisions together with her partner, as these actions are considered an investment in the relationship. In contrast, when a girlfriend does these things, it is seen as an expense, as she could be saving her time and resources for herself.
  5. Obligations: Some people view the relationship with a wife as an obligation, while a relationship with a girlfriend does not carry the same level of obligation.

It is essential to note that these differences are based on societal norms and expectations, and individual relationships may vary.

Comparative Table: Wife vs Girlfriend

Here is a table comparing the differences between a wife and a girlfriend:

Wife Girlfriend
Married to each other, usually in a legal and binding agreement [4 Not married to each other, relationship may or may not be exclusive
Steward of every family member, connected to the man and his family [4 Possesses no connection with the man and his family [4
Relationship is often more long-term and committed Relationship may be shorter-term or less committed
Shares responsibilities of raising children (if any) and managing household duties with the spouse May not be responsible for raising children or managing household duties
Feelings of love, trust, and loyalty are typically stronger and more established in a marriage Feelings of love, trust, and loyalty may be less established and more subject to change

Please note that these differences are generalizations and may not apply to every relationship. The specific dynamics of a relationship between a wife and a girlfriend can vary depending on the individuals involved and the nature of their connection.