Characterized by an excessive or obsessive focus on men, typically by a woman. This preoccupation can manifest in various ways, including constantly discussing men, prioritizing relationships with men above all else, seeking validation from men, or shaping one's identity and actions around male approval or attention. It can also involve romanticizing or idealizing male figures to a potentially detrimental extent, often to the exclusion of other interests, relationships, or self-development. The intensity of this preoccupation can range from a mild preference to a highly consuming state, with negative consequences for self-worth and other areas of life.
Man-preoccupied meaning with examples
- Sarah's friends noticed she was becoming increasingly man-preoccupied, constantly checking her phone for messages and canceling plans if a potential date arose. Her conversations were dominated by dating and relationships, and she seemed to define her worth based on male attention, neglecting her hobbies and female friendships. This constant focus was impacting her career goals.
- The novel's protagonist was portrayed as a man-preoccupied woman, whose entire existence seemed to revolve around finding a romantic partner. Her career ambitions were secondary to her pursuit of love, and her emotional well-being was dependent on the status of her relationships. She made drastic decisions in her life based on what she thought men would like.
- Critics often called out the social media influencer as man-preoccupied, showcasing outfits and activities solely to attract male followers. Her content seemed to center on male approval and validation, and many pointed out the negative impacts it had on her own image as well as those of her largely female fan base, who may adopt those traits.
- Despite her intelligence and talents, she was described by her friends as man-preoccupied. She would often talk about men and always be looking for male companionship, but her focus on being in a relationship left her little time to pursue her own passions, like writing and painting.