The phrase "decentering men" gained significant traction in 2025, influencing discussions around relationships and singlehood, particularly among young women. The concept, popularized on platforms like TikTok, encourages women to prioritize their own lives and well-being over seeking romantic partnerships.

Content creator Charlie Taylor originally coined the term in her 2019 book, "Decentering Men: How to Decenter Men," but its usage surged this year. Women are sharing videos offering advice on thriving outside of traditional romantic relationships and deprioritizing the search for a mate.

The trend reflects a broader cultural shift, with women increasingly questioning traditional gender roles and expectations. Tracee Ellis Ross, for example, has played a role in challenging conventional notions of single women through her Roku series, "Solo Traveling With Tracee Ellis Ross," which documents her fulfilling and glamorous single lifestyle.

Kyndall Cunningham, a culture writer who covers gender, relationships, and social trends, noted the increased frequency of the phrase "decentering men" in online discourse throughout the year. This rise in popularity suggests a growing interest in exploring alternative ways of living and relating, especially among younger generations of women.