Difference between Dating and Relationship

Dating and being in a relationship are the two most popular terms these days that have often been used again and again by several couples so much so that many would view the two as synonymous to each other. Even though both of these involve two particular persons yet there is a difference between them. This difference between dating and relationship can be subtle.

Definition of Dating and Relationship:
1. A relationship is basically a bond or connection between two individuals of the same gender or opposite gender. Relationships are developed when the two persons involved are in constant communication. Although it seems that being in a relationship involves some feeling to be felt between two individuals but it is not a necessary criterion for a relationship, for example the relationship between a lawyer and his client.
2. On the other hand dating can be defined as an emerging relationship between two individuals. The sole purpose behind dating is to know whether a particular person would be a perfect partner or not. Dating often results in a ‘romantic’ relationship between two individuals.
Yet both of these terms sound synonymous to each other when being discussed in the romantic context, yet there are few facts that could help us determine the difference between dating and relationship.
3. Difference in the level of commitment and seriousness: This is the most important difference between a relationship and dating. When two persons are dating each other then there is no commitment involved at all. But as they spend more time together and get to know each other better then the level of seriousness and commitment starts increasing. This is the point where a relationship starts emerging between them. Dating just helps you out to know whether you could be comfortable in a serious relationship with that particular person.
4. Difference in the amount of time spent together: The other major difference between dating and relationship is the amount of time that two individuals spend together. When two persons are dating each other then they do not spend much time together because of the low level of seriousness but when they start liking each other then they wish to spend more time together, and then dating starts taking the shape of a relationship. And if they are lucky enough then they get to spend their whole life together.
5. Is it mutual? Most of the relationship problems occur due to lack of the communication between them. A relationship is always mutual with the same level of commitment and seriousness from both the individuals. There is no confusion in the relationship status when two persons are in a relationship, if one person still considers it as a date and other one considers it as relationship then it is definitely not a relationship because only one person is serious and other is not.
6. Expectations: When there is no commitment then there are no expectations at all. When two individuals are dating each other then they do not expect anything from their dating partners but with time as the bond between them grows stronger, the expectations from each other also increases.

From the above discussion it is very much clear that the main difference between dating and relationship lies in the level of commitment. If u want to be in a relationship then you should be responsible towards your partner. Dating just helps you to know whether a particular person can be a good partner with whom you could be in a relationship.