From fridges that tell you when your milk is expired to 3D T.V.’s, we see a lot of simplifying nowadays. That being said, you would think that the one thing that would become simplified as well is our vocabulary. Well, lemme just tell you that that is anything but the case.

Thought “going steady” was complicated? Buckle up, you’re in for one hell of a ride. Dating, hooking up, exclusive, a thing, friends with benefits, a fling, the list goes on and on but for now, these are all you need to know to survive the catastrophes we call 21st-century relationships.

Don’t know what the difference between a “thing,” “exclusive,” and “dating” is? Don’t worry, neither do I. However, I will do my best to explain on behalf of my generation.

A “thing” refers to two people who have been “hooking up” ––note that “hooking up” can be anything from kissing to full-blown intercourse–– consistently over some period of time. Basically, enough time has to go by for it to hit “thing” status. But oh, don’t you worry, this isn’t quite dating yet! First, you have to cross the “exclusive” line before you enter “dating” territory.

“Exclusive” is the next milestone, kinda like one step up from being a “thing.” When you’re “exclusive” you have established with your partner that you two are solely “hooking up” with each other. No one else is in the picture, just the two of you smooth sailing into the horizon towards “dating” (because OF COURSE being “exclusive” and “dating” are so so so different).

Finally, once the two of you have been “exclusive” for some time, it is expected that you two will attain “dating” status. Never thought you’d see the day, but alas here you are!

Still confused on what the difference between “exclusive” and “dating” is? There really is no sense to it, like I genuinely couldn’t tell you what the difference is and I am even an active member in this generation. However, I can offer some insight on why exactly this concept of being “exclusive” exists.

With the numerous ways my generation utilizes social media and technology to interact, there are so many loopholes that have been introduced in the dating world. Along with these loopholes comes the ability to easily avoid fully committing to one individual.

I get it, we’re young and alive, but with this youthful attitude- coupled with the usage of social media- comes a greater distancing from true relationships. It’s not only that people my age fear commitment, it is also the fact that my generation encourages this fear to prevail. So, basically what I am getting at is that chivalry is dead and we’re all doomed for. Makes being a 20-year-old college student sound tempting, doesn’t it?!

I'm kidding, don't worry! We’re not all headed for disaster in the loveeee department. Relationships are most definitely still attainable, don't get me wrong, but maybe give your finger a break from swiping left and try out face-to-face interactions in order to find one.