Modern Dating Decoded

When someone keeps you in their 'roster' as a backup option but never commits to actual plans or exclusivity. You aren't playing in the game, but you aren't cut from the team either.

A viral relationship test based on John Gottman's research on 'bids for connection.' If you point out a bird (or anything mundane) and your partner looks/engages, it predicts relationship success. If they ignore it, it predicts failure.

Sending sporadic, low-effort messages ('flirtatious crumbs') just to keep someone interested without any intention of pursuing a serious relationship.

The dominant dating trend of 2026. A rejection of 'playing games' in favor of radical transparency. Instead of decoding mixed signals, 'Clear Coders' state their intentions immediately (e.g., 'I'm having fun, but not looking for exclusivity').

The active process of clearing out old flames, phone numbers, and emotional baggage from the past to make space for a new relationship.

Keeping someone as a backup option (in the 'cookie jar') in case the relationship with their main person doesn't work out.

The non-verbal cues in text messaging that reveal interest or disinterest. Includes response time, emoji usage, punctuation (or lack thereof), and double texting.

Sending a second message before the other person has replied to the first. Historically seen as 'desperate', but in 2026 recognized as simply communicative if done with confidence.

One-word replies, lack of questions, and zero enthusiasm. The digital equivalent of staring at a wall.

The slower, more passive cousin of ghosting. Instead of disappearing instantly, they reduce communication over weeks until it stops completely.

Ending a relationship or correspondence by suddenly cutting off all communication without explanation.

An overwhelming amount of affection, compliments, and gifts early in a relationship, often used to manipulate or gain control. Once you're hooked, the affection is often withdrawn.

Small breaches of trust that don't cross the line into physical cheating but violate the emotional boundaries of a relationship (e.g., sliding into DMs, secretive texting).

When someone stops replying to your texts (ghosts you) but continues to watch your stories and like your posts. They want to stay in your orbit without landing on your planet.

The practice of openly dating multiple people at once to avoid getting too attached to one person. In 2026, often done transparently (see Clear Coding).

A romantic relationship that lacks clear definitions or commitment. It sits in the gray area between 'talking' and 'dating'.

Subtly posting a new partner on social media without revealing their face or identity (e.g., a photo of two coffee cups, an elbow). Signals you are taken without the risk of a public breakup.

Refusing to communicate or express emotions during a conflict. Shutting down completely.

When a ghost comes back from the dead. Someone who ghosted you months ago suddenly pops up with a 'Hey' or likes a story as if nothing happened.