Parallel polyamory - meaning and definition
Alsoparallel polyparallel relationshipsparallel non-monogamy
Definition
A style of polyamory in which each relationship runs largely separately, and metamours have little or no contact with each other.
At a glance
- Each relationship runs largely separately.
- Metamours have little or no contact with each other.
- Everyone still knows about the other relationships and agrees.
- It can suit people who value privacy or have little in common with metamours.
In detail
In parallel polyamory, everyone knows the other relationships exist, but they do not overlap socially. A person might see each partner on their own schedule without organising joint events.
Parallel polyamory is different from secrecy: the arrangement is known and consented to. It can suit people who value privacy or whose metamours simply have little in common.
In a sentence
- We practise parallel polyamory, so I've only met my metamour once.
- Parallel poly works for me because I like keeping my relationships separate.
Not to be confused with
- Don't ask, don't tell
Under don't ask, don't tell, partners avoid information about other relationships, while parallel poly only limits social contact.
Common questions
Is parallel polyamory the same as keeping secrets?
No. In parallel polyamory everyone knows the other relationships exist and has consented to the arrangement. The relationships simply do not overlap socially.