Gen Z has coined a new dating term for people who date less for love and more for social status: “throning.” Are they a total catch or just a clout chaser? By putting them on a theoretical throne, the common phrase refers to dating someone who boosts your reputation and, probably, ego just by association.
Throning may not be an original concept. In a time when branding and digital currency are just as significant as actual currency, people have long been looking to "date up," and the new trend might just be another way of gold-digging!
Throning prioritizes influence and clout over shared interests and values, meaningful connection, and emotional intimacy. I'd like to add that there isn’t necessarily something wrong with forging connections to expand social circles, as long as it isn’t disguised as a romantic relationship.