Contrary to popular belief, it is possible for men and women to be just friends. If you and your best friend are opposite gender, chances are everyone you meet assumes you're dating, your parents believe you're secretly together, and your friends all wonder if you have more-than-just-friends feelings for him/her. Chances are, if your best friend is a different gender, you've run into a few challenges.

1. People assume you are dating

"You guys are so cute together."

"You make a great couple."

The comments were awkward at first, but now you've heard it so often you just roll your eyes and give your "we're not dating" speech.

2. You are their date if they can't find one

There is an unspoken rule that if you don't have a date to your cousin's wedding, or to your holiday work party, your best friend will step up. That way when your nosy aunt comes over to talk, you have someone to tear up the dance floor with.

3. You write entire text conversations for them

Your BFF needs advice about what to text back to his crush? You've got his back. He returns the favor by analyzing all the screenshots you send him.

4. You know EVERYTHING about them

You've broken down all the barriers and you can ask them even the most deeply personal questions. Other people might think it's weird that you ask how their doctor's appointment went, but you don't even think twice about it.

5. You are the best wing-man/woman

You know your best friend better than anyone, and you know exactly who you want to set them up with. You have also dragged your bff away from someone you know is crazy, saving him/her a lot of trouble.

6. You're not afraid to call each other out

You have no problem telling him when he's being mean and he has no problem telling you that you're impossible. It's not offensive, because you know they're trying to make you better.

7. You start talking alike

You have spent so much time together, that you start to pick up each other's slang, and cadences. There is no one else who could have possible made you start saying "fam" and "bro" or gotten him to use abbreviations like "def" and "totes."

8. You have to approve their S.O.

Before either one of you gets serious with anyone, he or she has to pass your tests. Because your BFF trusts your judgment, they'll believe you if you think they can do better.

9. You see each other at your worst

Your BFF has stood by your side through everything, breakups, makeups, fights with your parents. They have seen you at your lowest point, but somehow still love you for it.

10. You know all their secrets

You've been friends for so long that they know all of your most embarrassing moments, and they have so much dirt on you that you don't have a choice but to be friends forever. No one else will truly understand how weird you are except your BFF.