There’s a very clear line between talking and dating–the question “will you be my girlfriend?” Talking is when two people are not exclusive with each other, but have some sort of relationship.

“Talking is not dating, until someone fully specifies that we’re dating and they give an official title of boyfriend and girlfriend,” said junior Lexi Sheiman.

Talking gives a sense of companionship and comfort without the pressure of commitment. “Talking is not considered dating because you’re not dating. It’s officially just getting to know each other until you have a title,” said junior Hannah Manger.

Dating is complex. Before there was courtship, roses, and eating at a restaurant. Now, it’s eating in the back of Wendy’s, wondering who is going to pay, and if you’ll even talk to each other the next day. Maybe you’ll end up blocking each other, maybe you’ll get ghosted, but that’s just the 2022 dating scene.

Despite this complexity, the definition of talking is generally agreed upon. Most consider talking one stage away from dating. “I think talking is getting to know the person,” said sophomore Neveah Downfred.

But not everyone follows this definition. “Talking is dating. You shouldn’t be seeing other people,” said freshman Natile Manger.

In my mind, talking and dating are different. The problem with our generation is that we like to assume what we are when we should be clear on where we stand. If someone mentions that they’re going to the movies, do you invite yourself or do you wait for the question “do you want to go to the movies with us?” I certainly hope it’s not the former.