From Ghosting to Benching: Modern Dating Terms Decoded

In the intricate world of modern dating, a new vernacular has emerged. Whether you’re swiping left or right on dating apps in Singapore or engaging in old-school dating, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest lingo. Why? It helps navigate the often confusing terrain of relationships today.

This glossary-style guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of the trendiest dating terms, ensuring you’re always in the loop.

1. Ghosting

Definition: When someone you're dating suddenly cuts off all communication without explanation.
Usage: “I thought our date went well, but then he ghosted me."

2. Benching

Definition: When someone keeps you on their ‘bench' – you're not their main focus, but they don’t want to let go entirely. They keep you as an option.

Usage: “He's not really committing, but keeps texting occasionally. I feel like he's benching me."

3. Breadcrumbing

Definition: Sending out flirtatious but non-committal messages to keep someone interested without really investing in the relationship.

Usage: “She's been breadcrumbing me for months, always hinting at plans but never following through."

4. Zombieing

Definition: When someone who previously ghosted you suddenly re-emerges, usually with a random message or interaction.

Usage: “Guess who's back from the dating dead? Jack zombied me out of the blue today."

5. Cuffing Season

Definition: The period during the colder months when singles seek out a partner for warmth and companionship, often temporarily.

Usage: “It's getting chilly. Guess cuffing season is in full swing."

6. Catfishing

Definition: Creating a fake online identity to deceive someone into a relationship, often using misleading photos or personal information.

Usage: “Be careful online. My friend got catfished by someone using a model's photos."

7. Situationship

Definition: A relationship that isn’t quite defined. It's more than a friendship but hasn't evolved into a defined relationship.

Usage: “We're not officially dating, it's more of a situationship."

Curious about the dynamics of a situationship? Read more about it in this detailed exploration.

8. Orbiting

Definition: When someone maintains a digital presence in your life (watching your Instagram stories, liking your posts) but avoids direct communication.

Usage: “She won't return my texts, but she's always orbiting my social media."

9. Love Bombing

Definition: Showering someone with affection, gifts, and compliments early in a relationship to manipulate or gain control.

Usage: “He was all over me at first, with gifts and sweet messages. It felt like love bombing."

10. Slide Into DMs

Definition: Directly messaging someone on social media, usually with romantic intent.

Usage: “He slid into my DMs last night with a flirty meme."

The dating landscape in Singapore, as everywhere, continues to evolve, with its language adapting at an equally rapid pace.

Staying updated with these terms ensures clearer communication and understanding in our modern age of romance. So the next time someone mentions they've been “benched" or are in a “situationship", you'll be well-prepared to offer advice or share your own tales from the dating trenches.