dating

This page is about the euphemism dating

Meaning

regularly having sex

For example

  • Are you dating anyone at the moment?

  • Ben's been dating since he was sixteen, but he hasn't had a serious relationship yet.

Note:
For advanced learners: As taboos against sex before marriage and homosexuality have gradually weakened in Western society, the usage of "dating" has changed. It used to mean going out to dinner, to the movies, etc. with someone of the opposite sex, but now it's often used as a euphemism for regularly having sex with casual partners of the opposite or same sex.

Quick Quiz

Harry's dating a guy he met at the gym. They're

a. in a casual relationship

b. in a serious relationship

c. just really good friends
a) in a casual relationship b) in a serious relationship c) just really good friends

Contributor: Matt Errey