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- Young people have always had an impact on the dynamic nature of language.
- Gen-Zers are currently setting the tone.
- Below, dating expert Anastasii Pochotna shares the Gen-Z dating slang you should know.
- For more lifestyle news, go to the News24 Life front page.
The Gen-Z
influence is hard to ignore. We constantly hear new words and phrases
mushrooming.
Dating expert Anastasii Pochotna from the Flirtini dating app says relationship lingo may have moved on, but you can always catch on.
"We all have that moment when we realise our slang is outdated and we aren't as young as we once were.
"Relationship lingo may have moved on, but don't worry. Words like 'simps' were once 'whipped' and 'smashing' is nothing more than a meaningless fling - all that's changed is the name."READ MORE
| Stuck in a 'talking stage' or
'situationship'? How young people can get more out of modern love
The ultimate Gen-Z dating slang guide
1. Simp - A person who is excessively affectionate towards their love interest, typically directed at men.
Example: I don't know why you gotta be such a simp, Noah. She's not even worth it!
2. Breadcrumbing - When a person flirts with you but doesn't make an effort to date you.
Example: I beg you, don't settle for this guy! He's obviously breadcrumbing you - you're just the backup.
3. Hot girl summer - When a woman embraces a carefree attitude, prioritising herself during the summer with no intention of finding a relationship.
Example: What should I do? My ex just texted me, but I've already planned for a hot girl summer.
4. Cuffing season - A period in autumn and winter when single people search for short-term partners to spend the cold months with.
Example: You don't want a girlfriend, Dean! It's just cuffing season - go put on a jacket or something.READ MORE | 'People are adopting modern masculinity' - Top dating trends to make your dating journey easier
5. Situationship - A romantic relationship that's unclearly defined and lacks traditional commitment.
Example: We've been getting to know each other for months, but it's only a situationship. We're not together or anything.
6. Delusionship - A relationship that only exists in your imagination, where you plan your life together before making a move.
Example: You're telling me you've never talked to her, but you're already picturing the wedding? That sounds like a delusionship to me.
7. Talking stage - The period, usually between one and two months, where people go on dates and decide whether to make the relationship exclusive.
READ MORE | Roaching, breadcrumbing and pocketing - 6 dating terms and the manipulative tactics they expose
Example: So, I met this guy. We've only been in the talking stage for a month, but I think I want him to be my boyfriend.
8. Soft launching - The gradual introduction of a new partner into your personal life.Example:
Ben doesn't want to announce us to the world before the three-month mark, but
he doesn't mind doing a soft launch on our socials.
Smash - Casual sex, usually a one-time hookup without any emotional attachment.
Example: He's hot, but I have my hesitations about this guy. What do you think: smash or pass?
9. Love bombing - When a person showers you with affection too early on in a relationship, often in an attempt to manipulate you.
Example: He was so sweet right off the bat, but I'm not sure if he's love bombing me or just trying to show his intentions.
- Information provided by the Movchan Agency.
