Each person may date other people and have no problems respecting this aspect. Some may choose to get close to each other through sex or a one-night stand, but it still doesnt mean youre in a relationship. Dating may involve spending time with someone, but you dont have goals or an expectation.

Is dating the same as being in a relationship?

While relationships are based on mutual agreement and trust, dating isnt the same. For some, casual dating is not mutual. The idea of exclusivity while with someone may differ. Some people like to exclusively date each other while others like to date other people and dont want to be committed to just one person.

What do you call the guy youre dating?

You might also refer to him as something more detached, like my plus-one, prospect or literally, like, This is my date. Some prefer the tongue-in-cheek not-boyfriend. You can be coy (fancy friend) or a bit crass (makeout buddy) or cheesy (this is my luvvah) or even snobbish/fake-French.