Are you up to speed with the latest dating terms? Do you know how to relate to current convos about love? Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, back in the dating pool or simply want to unpick what on earth they’re talking about on Love Island, there’s a whole lexicon out there that you need to get to grips with if you want to navigate the minefield of modern romance.
Fortunately for the confused, Instagram educator and sex and relationship expert LalalaLetMeExplain is on hand with some serious “beducation” to offer…
A. IS FOR ATTACHMENT STYLE
The way you bond with partners is largely formed in childhood, although it can change with therapy or adult relationships. Attachment styles range from secure to insecure and avoidant/anxious/fearful.
Read Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel SF Heller.
B IS FOR BREADCRUMBING
This is the act of having just enough communication with someone to make them think you're interested while knowing you're not.
If someone is dropping "crumbs" instead of initiating "full-blown meals", they're probably not that into you.
C IS FOR CATFISH
A person who pretends to be someone else online. You can spot them on the dating apps with their far too perfect pictures and frequent excuses for not being able to meet or video call. Be especially wary if they ask for money when you've never met.
D IS FOR DEMISEXUAL
Demisexuals are similar to those asexual people who don't feel any attraction or desire towards others.
However, people who identify as demisexual can feel some attraction, but only if and when an emotional bond has already been formed. Even then, the sexual desire may be low.
E IS FOR ETHICAL NONMONOGAMY
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A CITY OF TWO HALVES
There's a holiday for every budget to be found in Dubai, as OK!'s Faith Richardson discovered
'Christmas is a double whammy'
Chef James Martin on the pressures of dividing his time between his restaurants and his family over the festivities
LEARN HOW TO PLEASE YOURSELF
The festive season can be an incredibly stressful time, particularly for people-pleasers who struggle to put their own needs first
'There's a bit of faking it until you make it'
Actor Paul Mescal on entering the Gladiator II arena, building a blockbuster body for his role as fighter Lucius Verus, and heading up an A-list cast of Hollywood's finest stars
THE A-LIST HAIL HOLLYWOOD'S BIG HITTERS
A line-up of the film world's best-known faces attended this year's Governors Awards to celebrate lifetime achievements
'I think we arrived right on time'
The stars of the long-awaited film Wicked, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, tell us why its themes are so relevant right now and why the musical is so dear to their hearts
'No one knows who I am'
Having first found fame on social media, GK Barry has become the breakout star of this year's I'm A Celebrity
'I still pinch myself about how we met'
Now legally married, MAFS Uk’s Adam and Tayah Aveling are looking forward to Christmas with their daughter and welcoming baby number two in 2025
THE ROYAL WEEK
It was a sad week for Queen Camilla, but a good week for the royal family’s charities with visits to hospitals and homeless centres
WILLIAM AND KATE'S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS
After a challenging year for the royal family, the Prince and Princess of Wales plan to give their children an unforgettable time filled with fun and festivities