5 Characteristics That Will Tell if Your Relationship is a Fling

Spending time with each other romantically despite not having an emotional relationship and breaking up within a short period of time is called a ‘fling’ in the urban lexicon.

“He just has flings, no desire for a serious relationship.”


You may have heard such talk about someone in your familiar circle but do not understand the matter. In fact, the English word ‘fling’ basically refers to a period of fleeting pleasure. Spending time with each other romantically despite not having an emotional relationship and breaking up within a short period of time is called a ‘fling’ in the urban lexicon.

A Fling is Not Love

People often make mistakes by misinterpreting. Sometimes it’s the wrong person, sometimes it’s the wrong time. But the biggest mistake is not understanding the dynamics of the relationship. One such huge problem is mistaking flings for love. Let’s take a look at the 5 characteristics of a fling to know what is and isn’t a fling and whether you are someone’s fling or not.

There is No Talk of the Future

In most cases, we discuss the future with the person with whom we wish to plan for the future. At least one person in a fling knows very well in advance that he or she does not want to take the relationship any further. In that case, it is wise for them to avoid future talks. But it can be painful for the other person if both are not moving towards the same goal.

Needs Are the Key, Not Emotions

Love and affection – these feelings of the human mind are rooted only in emotions and passions. Needs, societal restrictions, and even obligations come later. But when it comes to flings, emotions are sometimes thought of as burdens. There isn’t much to a fling beyond being completely casual, meeting each other’s needs, and having certain companionship. There is no dependence, caring, supporting each other through thick and thin, or moving forward together. From the beginning to the end, a casual atmosphere is noticeable.

No Introduction to Acquaintances

If the person’s confidence is not at its peak, then most of the time this is what happens in flings. The topic of getting acquainted with friends and family members of both parties is avoided. Even if one party, who may not be taking the matter as a fling, expresses a desire to get acquainted, the other side brushes it off with some pretext. There is a lot of hiding in flings because one already knows about its impermanence. So, there is no desire to name this relationship by telling more people.

Being Romantically Interested in Someone Else

Since there is no commitment or monogamy involved in flings, showing romantic interest in other men or women and being very open about your feelings for them can also be a feature. Of course, some may see it as a friendly gesture, but that is what happens in the general context.

They Don’t Want to Know Each Other

A relationship is built on a solid foundation only when both know and understand each other well. But since a fling is so fleeting, there is no attempt to know, understand, or feel the other person. Flings don’t involve much talking or sharing of personal upsets, past hurts, or even successes. Dating on demand is its main purpose and reason for being in the relationship.

If one of the two is exhibiting the above behaviors and the other is hesitant, then it’s likely that the relationship is a fling.

In fact, the difference between a real romantic relationship and a fling lies in two places: sustainability and accountability. If these two things are very low between the two, especially almost non-existent, then it is most likely a fling. But even from a fling, people can sometimes move a few steps further into a real love relationship.

If the relationship between the two starts from a fling, the bond is much more successful – there are chances they will move on to a commitment later. Of course, some people want a no-fuss and undemanding relationship. In such a relationship, the person wants no strings attached and wishes to keep other opportunities open for themselves. Whether or not a fling is a healthy practice for someone depends on their personality, preferences, needs, and circumstances. But both parties in such a relationship need to know the details so that no one gets hurt.

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