They sometimes use the term “ no fems” as well. Those who use the term tend to be straight-passing men who refuse to communicate with anyone other than straight-passing men, and therefore dismiss and/or degrade feminine or androgynous people. Men often describe themselves this way to indicate that they’re masculine-acting, and are seeking other masculine-acting individuals. “Masc 4 Masc” is a phrase with which many gay men on dating apps are familiar. But my highly romanticized journey with dating apps took a confusing turn when I repeatedly encountered a phrase I soon realized was treacherous: “Masc 4 Masc.” One day, I decided to get my phone out and download an app I prepared my thumbs for all sorts of left- and right-swiping.
It was just three years ago that I was a high school student ready to explore the realm of internet dating.