12 Labels in Relationships Other Than Being “In a Relationship”

You’ve been seeing someone for a while, but you’re not sure where you stand. Are you ‘dating,’ ‘exclusive,’ or something else entirely? Gone are the days of simply being ‘boyfriend’ and ‘girlfriend.’ Today’s relationships come with a wide vocabulary, all their own!

Modern relationships can feel overwhelming, given the variety of labels people use to define their connections. These labels in relationships act as a roadmap, managing expectations, boundaries, and levels of commitment within a relationship.

Understanding relationship labels and different terms can help clarify where you stand and what you’re looking for in a relationship. So, stick with us as we help you define your relationship and assist you in figuring out the proper ways to label your relationship.

How can labels help define expectations in relationships?

Imagine two friends, Sarah and Michael, both excited about their new connections. Sarah, seeing David, feels a constant tingle of butterflies and wants to spend all her free time with him.

Michael, on the other hand, is casually dating Jessica. He enjoys their movie nights but also keeps his options open. Without a label, mismatched expectations can brew trouble.

When Sarah expects a weekend getaway for their “monthiversary,” David, who sees them as “casually dating,” might be surprised. Labels like “boyfriend” or “seeing someone casually” act like traffic signals in a relationship.

Labels in relationships communicate the level of commitment, intimacy, and exclusivity expected, preventing collisions and ensuring a smooth ride.

12 labels in relationships and types you should know about

When it comes to modern relationships, it’s not always clear where you stand. People use various labels in relationships to describe their connection and commitment level.

Here are 12 different relationship labels to help you understand the diverse ways people define their relationship status.

1. Friends with benefits

A “friends with benefits” relationship involves friends who also engage in casual sexual activity. There is typically no commitment beyond the physical connection, and the emotional bond remains platonic. This label allows individuals to enjoy intimacy without the pressures of a committed relationship.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

An example might be two friends who occasionally hook up but continue to date other people. It’s a type of casual relationship label that suits those who need more time to be ready for or are interested in something more serious.

2. Casual dating

Casual dating involves going on dates and enjoying each other’s company without any long-term expectations or commitments. This type of relationship label is perfect for those who want to keep things light and fun.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Typically, individuals involved in casual dating might see other people simultaneously. It’s a great way to get to know different people and understand what you want in a partner without the pressures of exclusivity.

3. Open relationship

An open relationship allows partners to maintain a primary romantic connection while also engaging in relationships or sexual activities with others. This modern relationship label requires clear communication and mutual agreement on boundaries.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

It works well for couples who value their primary bond but also want the freedom to explore connections outside the relationship. This label emphasizes trust and transparency to ensure all parties feel respected and understood.

4. Polyamorous relationship

Polyamory involves having multiple romantic relationships simultaneously, with the consent of all involved. This relationship status label is about more than just physical connections; it includes deep emotional bonds with multiple partners.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

People in polyamorous relationships often form a network of connections, each with its own level of commitment. This non-traditional relationship label works for those who believe love isn’t limited to one person and seek multiple meaningful connections.

5. Situationship

A situationship is a romantic or sexual relationship without a clear definition or label. It’s more than a friendship but not quite a committed partnership. Situationships can be confusing because the boundaries and expectations are often unclear.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Such a type of relationship label can lead to mixed feelings as one or both parties may seek more clarity. It’s common for individuals to find themselves in situationships while they figure out what they truly want.

6. Committed partnership

A committed partnership involves a long-term, exclusive relationship without the formalities of marriage. Partners in this type of relationship label are deeply invested in each other’s lives and often share significant responsibilities, such as living together or raising children.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

The commitment is as strong as in a marriage but without the legal ties. This label suits couples who value their bond and shared life but prefer not to marry.

7. Monogamish

“Monogamish” refers to a primarily monogamous relationship that allows for occasional outside sexual experiences. This modern relationship label offers flexibility while maintaining a strong primary connection. 

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Partners agree on boundaries and communicate openly about their needs. It’s suitable for couples who want to keep their relationship dynamic and acknowledge that occasional outside interests can coexist with a committed bond.

8. Platonic life partners

Platonic life partners are individuals who share a deep, non-romantic bond and commit to sharing their lives together. They may live together, support each other emotionally, and share responsibilities, much like a romantic couple. 

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Such a relationship status label works well for those who value companionship and partnership without a romantic or sexual component. It’s an example of how diverse and inclusive modern relationship labels can be.

9. Long-distance relationship

A long-distance relationship involves partners who are geographically separated but maintain their romantic connection. This relationship label requires strong communication, trust, and effort to bridge the physical gap. 

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Couples in long-distance relationships often rely on technology to stay connected and may plan visits to spend time together. It’s a challenging but rewarding label for those committed to making their relationship work despite the distance.

10. Ethical non-monogamy

Ethical non-monogamy refers to any relationship structure where all partners consent to having multiple romantic or sexual relationships. This non-traditional relationship label emphasizes honesty, consent, and respect for all involved.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

It includes various forms, such as open relationships and polyamory. Ethical non-monogamy suits individuals who believe in the possibility of multiple fulfilling relationships and are committed to maintaining open communication.

11. Queerplatonic relationship

A queerplatonic relationship involves a deep emotional connection that goes beyond a typical friendship but doesn’t necessarily include romantic or sexual elements. This type of relationship label is often used in the LGBTQ+ community to describe bonds that are more intense than friendships but don’t fit traditional romantic norms.

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Queerplatonic partners may share their lives closely and prioritize each other’s well-being. It’s a label that highlights the diversity and inclusivity of modern relationships.

12. Domestic partnership

A domestic partnership is a legally recognized relationship between two people who live together and share a domestic life but are not married. This label offers some legal benefits similar to marriage, such as healthcare and inheritance rights. 

• Commitment typically associated with it:

Domestic partners are committed to each other and often share significant responsibilities. This relationship status label is ideal for couples who want legal recognition without the formalities of marriage.

5 ways to figure out the right label for your relationship

Choosing the right label for your relationship may not be easy, but it’s crucial for clarity and mutual understanding.

Labels in relationships help define expectations, boundaries, and levels of commitment. Here are 5 practical ways to figure out the right label for your relationship.

1. Communicate openly with your partner

Effective communication is crucial in any relationship. Talk openly with your partner about your feelings, expectations, and what you want from the relationship. Discussing these aspects can help both of you understand where you stand.

• How to apply

Initiate a conversation in a comfortable setting, expressing your desire to discuss the relationship’s direction. Use “I” statements to share your feelings and encourage your partner to do the same, ensuring you both contribute to the discussion.

2. Reflect on your personal needs and desires

Take some time to reflect on what you truly want in a relationship. Are you looking for something casual or more serious? Do you need a lot of personal space or prefer constant companionship? Understanding your own needs can help you choose the most appropriate label.

• How to apply

Spend some quiet time journaling or meditating on your relationship goals and needs. Write down your priorities and desires, then review them to gain clarity on which labels in relationships best align with your personal needs.

3. Consider the level of commitment

Assess the level of commitment both you and your partner are willing to invest. Labels in relationships often indicate how committed the partners are to each other. If you are both ready for a serious commitment, you might choose a label like “domestic partnership” or “committed relationship.”

• How to apply

Have an honest discussion about your future plans and how you envision your relationship evolving. Share your thoughts on commitment and listen to your partner’s perspective, aiming to find a common ground that satisfies both of you.

4. Evaluate your relationship dynamics

Pay attention to the dynamics of your relationship. How do you interact with each other? Are there elements of exclusivity, or do you both see other people?

• How to apply

Observe your interactions and daily routines with your partner. Reflect on your level of comfort with the current dynamics and discuss any changes you think might better align with a specific relationship label, ensuring it accurately reflects your connection.

5. Seek advice from trusted sources

Sometimes, an outside perspective can be helpful. Talk to trusted friends or family members who understand your relationship. They can offer valuable insights and might help you see things more clearly.

• How to apply

Reach out to friends or family members whose opinions you value and ask for their perspective on your relationship. Additionally, consider reading reputable articles or books on different types of relationships to broaden your understanding and make an informed decision.

Watch this video where Matthew Hussey, a relationship coach, talks about having difficult conversations in your relationship:

Is it a good idea to have a relationship without a label?

Having a relationship without a label can work for some people, but it’s important to consider the potential implications and whether it aligns with your needs and expectations. Relationships without labels allow for flexibility and can relieve the pressure of fitting into predefined categories.

However, it may also lead to confusion and misunderstandings about each person’s intentions and commitment level. To determine if a label-free relationship is right for you, ask yourself:

• Are you and your partner comfortable with the ambiguity?
• Do you both have clear expectations and boundaries?
• How will you handle potential misunderstandings or conflicts?
• Are you both on the same page regarding the future of the relationship?
• How important is a label to your sense of security and commitment?

Reflecting on these questions can help you decide if a label-free relationship suits your needs and those of your partner.

FAQs

Defining your relationship and understanding the importance of labels can bring clarity and harmony to your connection. Here are some common questions and answers to help you label your relationship and handle the various aspects that come with it.

• How do I bring up the topic of labeling our relationship with my partner?

Bringing up the topic of labeling your relationship can be done gently and honestly. Choose a calm, private moment to talk and express your feelings clearly.

You might start by saying, “I’ve been thinking about our relationship and where we stand. Can we discuss how we both see it?” This opens up a constructive conversation.

• What should I do if my partner and I have different views on relationship labels?

If you and your partner have different views on relationship labels, it’s important to listen and understand each other’s perspectives. Have an open dialogue about your needs and concerns, seeking common ground.

Compromise and mutual respect are key. If differences persist, consider seeking guidance from a relationship counselor to deal with the situation effectively.

• Are relationship labels necessary for a healthy relationship?

Relationship labels are not strictly necessary for a healthy relationship but can provide clarity and mutual understanding. Labels help define expectations and boundaries, making communication easier.

However, what matters most is that both partners are satisfied with their level of commitment and feel secure. Healthy relationships are built on trust, respect, and open communication, whether labeled or not.

• How can I transition from one relationship label to another without causing tension?

Transitioning from one relationship label to another requires clear communication and mutual agreement. Discuss your feelings and reasons for the change with your partner, ensuring you both understand and consent to the new label.

Be patient and considerate of each other’s feelings. Gradual changes and open dialogue can help ease the transition and maintain harmony.

• Can relationship labels evolve over time, and how should we handle these changes?

Yes, relationship labels can evolve over time as partners grow and their needs change. Handling these changes involves regular check-ins and open conversations about how each partner feels.

Be flexible and willing to adjust your relationship’s label as necessary. Respect and understanding are crucial in adapting to these evolutions and ensuring both partners feel valued and heard.

Define your relationship the right way!

Defining your relationship the right way can make a big difference in how you and your partner understand and interact with each other. Whether you choose a specific label or decide to keep things undefined, what matters most is that both of you feel comfortable and clear about your expectations.

Take the time to communicate openly, reflect on your needs, and understand the dynamics at play. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—find what works best for you and your partner. With the right label (or lack thereof), you can create a fulfilling and harmonious connection.