situationship
sich-oo-AY-shun-ship
/ˌsɪtʃ.uˈeɪ.ʃən.ʃɪp/
A romantic or sexual relationship that is not yet considered to be formal or established; a 'gray area' relationship.
It differs from 'friends with benefits' because there is often emotional intimacy, but a lack of commitment or 'labels'.
The story behind the word. A modern portmanteau that emerged in the early 2010s to describe the increasing number of relationships that lacked the traditional 'boyfriend/girlfriend' labels despite involving significant time and emotion.
Word relationships
- fling: A fling is understood to be short-term; a situationship can last for years without clarity.
- commitment: A clear, labeled agreement to be in a relationship.
Collocations
- stuck in a situationship
- define the situationship
- casual situationship
Example sentences
- "We've been seeing each other for six months, but we're still in a situationship." Describing a confusing romantic state.
- "The rise of the situationship reflects a generation's fear of commitment." A social commentary.
Memory hook
It's just a 'situation', not a 'ship' that's sailing anywhere. Relationship without the label.
When not to use
Avoid in legal or strictly professional discussions about marital status.
Fun facts
- Dating apps now sometimes include 'situationship' as a relationship goal option.
Related words
Explore more words
courtship, rebound, intimacy, acquaintance, attachment, extramarital
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