What does a person mean when they're "exclusive but not in a relationship" mean?

[jewel]

[snowy]

Basically, when someone says this, they're playing a bit of a balancing act between the single life and being in a full-blown relationship.

Being "exclusive" means that they're not dating, seeing, or hooking up with anyone else. It's like saying, "Hey, I'm only going on dates with you right now." It's a step up from casual dating, where you might still be seeing other people. Think of it as a sort of commitment light – like dipping your toes in the water of commitment without fully diving in.

But then, they add the twist – "but not in a relationship." This is where it gets a bit murky. It means they're not ready to slap the official boyfriend/girlfriend label on it yet. Maybe they're not ready for the full package of a relationship – meeting the family, shared holidays, the whole shebang. It's like they're saying, "I like you, I like what we have, but I'm not ready to go all-in just yet."

Why would someone want this kind of arrangement? Well, there are a few reasons:

Taking It Slow: Maybe they've been burnt in the past and want to take things super slow to make sure it's right.

Fear of Commitment: Classic case. They might like you a lot but are scared of what being in a 'relationship' entails.

Life Circumstances: Sometimes life's just too hectic – they could be focusing on their career, dealing with personal issues, or just not in a place where they can give a full relationship the time and energy it deserves.

Testing the Waters: They might be testing to see how well you both fit together before deciding to fully commit.

It's important, though, to be on the same page. This kind of arrangement can work for some, but it can also lead to confusion and hurt feelings if one person is taking the "exclusive" part more seriously than the other. Communication is key. It's totally okay to ask where you stand and to express what you're comfortable with. And hey, if you're not cool with this arrangement, that's perfectly fine too.

[Paris13]

Just That Person But Never Made it OFFICIAL. xxoo

[Paris13]

Thanks, Gag. xxoo

[normalice]

It means they are in a relationship but want to feel like they have the exit door propped open because they are prone to feeling trapped.

[Berethor]

They might be exclusive friends with benefits which is also same as relationship.

[Altheavas]

They are exclusively dating you, one person, but they don’t see their futures with you, it’s only short term, and you’re probably just filling avoid. They will snatch a better option if presented to them. You’re her/his Fuckbuddy!

[Angelize17]

My daughter is in this situation.. I explained it like this… he says “exclusive” to make her happy and feel special. But makes sure to say “but we’re not in a relationship “. So when she catches him with someone else. He can say “but babe, it’s not like we’re boyfriend and girlfriend!” And that’s exactly what happened!! Dumb teenagers!!!

[petitedollbabee]

They’re exclusively dating someone, as in only dating one person at a time rather than multiple. I’ve always done that with dating aswell. I’d rather focus on one person at a time.

[Account]

I assume it means they are not seeing other people, however they haven't put a label on what they have.

[mandyfire98]

They're in a situationship instead of a relationship. It's a sneaky link that you are exclusively hooking up with. Nobody else.

[sheikalana]

I guess they’re not seeing other people while they’re just dating you.

[Booklover_90]

Those are contradictory statements. You’re either exclusive or you’re not.

[KrakenAttackin]

This is the "modern" relationship bullshit.

[abc3643]

It means they are full of shit.

[wiltingrosepetal]

It means they're confusing 😀

[jazmiine]

Fuck buddy

[KittygosMeoWW]

I don't know never understood that