Main Difference – Dating vs Relationship
Dating and relationship are two of the commonest terms used in today’s society when talking about romantic relationships. But these two words are used interchangeably so much that many people do not see the difference between dating and relationship. Although dating someone can lead to a relationship with that person, dating is not the same as being in a relationship. Relationship is basically a bond or connection between two people. Dating, on the other hand, is the initial stage of a relationship where the two people are still getting together. The main difference between dating and relationship is commitment. Two people who are in a relationship are committed to each other whereas two people who are dating may also be seeing other people.
What is Dating
Dating can be defined as the initial stages of a relationship. It refers to two people meeting socially for companionship with the intention of appraising the other’s suitability as a partner in a romantic relationship or marriage. Dating also refers to the act of meeting and engaging in some social activities. Dating can often result in a romantic relationship between the two parties involved.
Dating differs from being in a relationship in several ways. Commitment and seriousness are two of the major differences between the two. When two people are dating, there is usually no commitment. It is when they spend time together and start to get to know each other that commitment begins to grow.
Since there is no commitment or a relationship between the couple, there are fewer expectations from each other. It is as the relationship between the couple grows that expectations also start to grow.
What is Relationship
A Relationship is a romantic relationship between two people. Relationship can be introduced as the result of dating. A relationship grows between two people when they are constantly communicating. Each person also has some feelings for the other as well.
Relationship is more serious and committed than dating. The two people involved in the relationship are often monogamous and do not see other people. Trust, love and commitment are essential elements in a relationship.
Difference Between Dating and Relationship
Meaning
Dating is the initial stages of a relationship.
Relationship is a romantic connection or bond between two people.
Commitment
When two people are dating, they are less committed and serious.
When two people are in a relationship, there is love, commitment, and trust.
Suitability
The main aim of dating is to see whether a particular person makes a suitable partner for you.
Relationship has already passed the stage of seeking whether a particular person is suitable as a partner.
Expectations
People who are dating have less expectation from each other.
People who are in a relationship have more expectations from each other.
Image Courtesy:
“Pickpocket date scene” by Charles Thompson (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
“Couple at City Hall” by Michael Caven from Stockholm, Sweden – Couple at City Hall, (CC BY 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
