Exclusive - meaning and definition
Alsoexclusivitygoing exclusivebeing exclusiveexclusive relationshipexclusive dating
Definition
An agreement between two people who are dating to stop seeing or pursuing anyone else.
At a glance
- An agreement to stop seeing or pursuing other people.
- Often a step between casual dating and a formal relationship.
- Some treat exclusive and in a relationship as the same, others do not.
- Asking directly works better than assuming.
In detail
Becoming exclusive is often a step between casual dating and calling someone a boyfriend, girlfriend or partner. Some couples treat exclusivity and a formal relationship as the same thing; others see exclusivity as a trial period.
Because dating apps make it easy to see several people at once, many relationship advisers recommend asking directly rather than assuming. Deleting an app together is sometimes used as a symbolic marker of exclusivity.
In a sentence
- We decided to be exclusive last week, so I've deleted the app.
- Are we exclusive, or are you still seeing other people?
Not to be confused with
- Monogamy
Monogamy is a broader, often long-term relationship structure; exclusivity usually marks an early dating milestone.
Common questions
Does being exclusive mean we are in a relationship?
For some couples yes, for others exclusivity is a trial period before using words like boyfriend, girlfriend or partner. The simplest way to know is to ask.
How do you ask someone to be exclusive?
Most people keep it simple: say that you would like to stop seeing others and ask how they feel. A calm, private moment usually works better than a message sent in passing.