The ever-turning wheel of modern relationships has made it absolutely necessary to almost fathom an entirely new nomenclature that loosely describes the collective Gen Z experience of dating and socializing. Some terms originate in internet- and social media-related cultures and might bewilder anyone outside this generation. But anyone who does understand the terms would glean amazing insight into how the young adult populace maneuvers its way around the twisty paths of romance, friendship, and everything in between. So, let’s take a look at some of the chief terms that define modern relationships from a Gen Z perspective.
The Unspecified “Situationship”
Another important word in the Gen Z dictionary is “situationship.” This term describes romantic or sexual relations that are neither clear nor explicitly affirmed. The duo may behave in several ways like a couple, but their status has never been clearly defined. A degree of flexibility can be offered by this sort of undefined situation, but it can also foster a fair degree of ambiguity. Further, the Cleveland Clinic’s article provides some more insight into it. Just as some people might use a health app to monitor their wellness, understanding the language of modern connection is useful to navigating that relational health within Gen Z.
Ghosting-the Art of Losing Voice
Another word with some importance among Gen Z concerns ghosting: instant shut-off of communication with someone without explanation. Ghosting can happen anywhere and leaves the star-turned-ghost with utter confusion and sometimes a bit of hurt about the matter. Verywell Mind does a splendid in defining ghosting and its ensuing effects. While ghosting, on one hand, is an action that is simply done with a noiselessness, on the other hand, merits some form of real-time social networking in clarity and respect of communication.
Love Bombing and Digital Interaction Etiquette
Meaning number two is where one goes overboard with attention and adoration towards his/her partner in the early phases of the relationship to such an extent that it becomes an irritation. Oddly enough, it will start off as something flattering, and only then does the game begin. One way to “slide” into DM’s would be direct messaging, whereby Gen Zs are utilizing social media to get to their object of interest.
Soft-launching, on the other hand, means being extremely vague on social media about a relationship; it is a Gen Z phenomenon whereby shadowing something about a partner is the name of the game. Knowing these terms is important in giving a grounding to how young adults connect and converse through the framing of modern-day relationships.
