Differences Between Hanging Out And Dating

The wonderfully complicated world of dating, or as Larry David once summed it up in an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm,

“A date is an experience you have with another person that makes you appreciate being alone.” I jest, because dating can actually be one of the best things in the world.

But unfortunately, we live in a time of uncertainty and being afraid to ask for clarification, so dating and “hanging out” are becoming one in the same.

But here’s the catch: they are COMPLETELY different beasts, so make sure you understand which one you’re falling into.

Exclusivity

Hanging out: Um, nonexistent. You could technically hang out with anyone…or anything. You could hang out with Netflix, your dog, strangers you’re forced to stand in awkward, elevator silence with. There’s nothing special about it.

Dating: You might be fully committed to one another, or both still keeping it open. But you’ve likely at least discussed it, and some sort of decision has been made.

Level of effort

Hanging out: Maybe they’ll clean up their room for you the first few times or let you pick the movie. You’re sort of just coasting along. It’s not bad, but not amazing. Just kind of existing, like Blake Lively.

Dating: It’s pretty high. I’m not saying this means caviar infused lobster tails every night, but you’re both trying. Maybe it’s something as simple as offering to drive to them because they had a really long day at work, or they remember your favorite show is on that night and ask if you want to watch. When you’re actually dating, you go the extra mile.

Being introduced

Hanging out: “Oh…yeah, this is my…friend.”

Dating: One of two things will happen: 1) This is my girlfriend/boyfriend (eeee!!) or if you haven’t quite gotten there yet, 2) This is insert your name.

 

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