Is it cruel to only words-and/or-eyes flirt with a genuine sense of attraction, but no current intent to have sex or start a relationship?

[robhazelnut]

Defining that type of flirting as looking warmly eye-to-eye or indirectly complimenting someone's appearence to them, often humorously, in conversation.

[dynamicyandere]

Cruel may be a bit harsh of a word to use.


I believe there’s a fine line between flirtation and leading someone on.


It’s unethical to lead someone on, to imply that things are going to lead to a more meaningful relationship, but actually have no intention of going there.


But, for leading someone on, there's a sense of direction and momentum involved.


Flirtation in isolation could be done by someone simply because they enjoy the fun of it, like how one enjoys witty banter back and forth.


Or another analogy can be dancing. Someone may enjoy dancing with you, but that doesn’t mean they also want to take you home for the night, right? Some people enjoy dancing for dancing’s sake.


Likewise with flirtation. It’s a ‘dance’ as well.


Some people are just flirtatious in general, and they do it for the vibe, for self-expression, for the fun, for many things.


It’s when flirtation become manipulation that things start getting twisted. If you are just a tool or a means to an end, and they’re seducing you for some ulterior motive. That’s unethical.


But, if it’s just flirtation in isolation. It’s just them having some fun.


If it’s genuine, it can always lead to something more. But, it’s not so much an invitation to sex or a relationship as it is an invitation to enter into the social ‘dance’ called flirtation.


Dance well, and you could open the door for something more. Dance poorly, and you may not pass their vibe-check.


It’s a gateway, an invitation to dance, not a promise for more.

[robhazelnut]

That makes sense.

[dynamicyandere]

I’m glad you found my answer helpful. 🙂 Best of luck to you with the ladies. ✨

[robhazelnut]

Best of luck to us all :)✨

[dynamicyandere]

Haha, thanks! ✨🍻✨

[robhazelnut]

You're welcome! ✨🍻✨ (would be cider on my part)

[Jamie05rhs]

Good question. I don't know.

[robhazelnut]

Thank you.

[Jamie05rhs]

You're welcome.