casual relationships

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "casual relationships" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe informal or non-committed romantic or social connections between individuals. Example: "Many people in their twenties often explore casual relationships before settling down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Others have more casual relationships.

The New York Times

Why? Casual relationships "won't derail future life plans".

The New York Times - Books

Ugandans have fewer sexual partners and are much more likely to use condoms in casual relationships than they were 10 years ago.

The New York Times

She pretends to go to university in Copenhagen, but mostly drifts in and out of casual relationships and visits her aunt's smørrebrød (Danish open sandwich) shop.

The Guardian - Books

Yet Orbach wants to dispel the myth that traditional love has been replaced with a lust-fuelled array of casual relationships.

Independent

It is not uncommon for people who are part of any online community to form bonds and casual relationships with the people they interact with on the Web.

The New York Times

The participants generally rated kissing in casual relationships as most important before sex, less important during sex, even less important after sex and least important "at other times".

The New York Times

Young people have more sex infections because they have more sex, more partners (who tend to overlap) and more casual relationships.

Independent

Recognizing that America loves a good deal ultimately led Hallmark to introduce a successful line of 99-cent cards called Warm Wishes that are simple, direct messages in economical greeting cards designed mostly for casual relationships.

The New York Times

Statistical data on the other hand contain no casual relationships among deterministic events.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

We've had these almost casual relationships with our heroes, in a really strange way.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like sexual health or relationship dynamics, use "casual relationships" to maintain a neutral and objective tone.

Common error

Avoid assuming all "casual relationships" are purely physical or lack emotional depth. The level of emotional investment can vary greatly. Always specify the nature of the relationship if it's relevant to your point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "casual relationships" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It describes a type of interpersonal connection characterized by a lack of commitment and long-term expectations, as shown in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "casual relationships" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe non-committed interpersonal connections. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase sees frequent usage in both News & Media and Scientific contexts, reflecting its relevance in discussing social trends and research findings. While generally neutral, the term can lean toward informal depending on the context. When using this phrase, it's important to avoid making broad assumptions about the emotional depth or nature of these relationships. Alternative phrases like "informal relationships" or "non-committed relationships" can provide nuanced meaning depending on the specific aspects you wish to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

informal relationships

Focuses on the lack of formality in the connection.

non-committed relationships

Emphasizes the absence of long-term promises or obligations.

short-term relationships

Highlights the limited duration of the connection.

fling

Suggests a brief and often passionate encounter.

friends with benefits

A friendship that includes sexual activity without romantic commitment.

hookups

Implies a primarily physical relationship with no emotional attachment.

situationships

A relationship that is undefined or lacks commitment.

affairs

Often suggests secrecy and infidelity within an existing commitment.

open relationships

Describes a relationship where both partners agree to have outside sexual encounters.

uncharacterized romances

A more clinical description of a non-serious or undefined love interest.

FAQs

What does "casual relationships" mean?

The phrase "casual relationships" refers to relationships that lack commitment and are not expected to be long-term or serious. They can range from simple friendships to sexual relationships without the expectations of a traditional partnership.

What are some synonyms for "casual relationships"?

Synonyms for "casual relationships" include "informal relationships", "non-committed relationships", and "short-term relationships". The specific meaning depends on the context.

Is it appropriate to use the term "casual relationships" in formal writing?

Yes, "casual relationships" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when discussing social dynamics, health, or research findings. However, ensure the context requires such a term and consider the audience's understanding.

How do "casual relationships" differ from committed relationships?

"Casual relationships" lack the long-term commitment, expectations, and responsibilities associated with committed relationships. They are typically more flexible and less emotionally involved than long-term partnerships or marriages.