Dating is already confusing. Add an ever-changing list of rotating trend words, and that’s a recipe for funny misunderstandings.
Knowing these dating words can help you avoid misunderstandings. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid misunderstandings and speak like a native.
Why Dating English Gets Lost in Translation
The problem with English is that words don’t often mean what they should mean. For example, hookups near me could be related to phones, food spots, or any other service near you. But, of course, it means something else entirely in English dating.
Or. the phrase “ghosted”. Like, what does that even mean for a non-English speaker? Between social context, trends, and words that mean other things, many English dating phrases get lost in translation.
Most Commonly Misinterpreted English Dating Phrases
The language of seduction and dating is as much about how you say it as what you say. Saying the wrong thing can be funny, but more often than not, sends the wrong signals to the other person.
Here are 7 of the most commonly misinterpreted English dating phrases.
1. Netflix and Chill
Sounds innocent enough, but there’s a twist. The Netflix part is true since you start by watching a show or movie. The “chill” is an underlying expectation of something naughtier. That expectation would be to kiss, cuddle, or even have sex. People who look for physical intimacy or sex tend to use this term to find hookups near me.
2. Talking
“Talking” and the “talking stage” both describe the unofficial stage where you’re getting to know someone, but you aren’t dating. But non-native English speakers tend to confuse it with just talking. This stage can also mean things like flirting and going on first dates.
3. Ghost
If you receive a text that says “I just ghosted someone”, don’t panic. “Ghosting” is how English speakers describe the action of stopping communication with someone, usually suddenly and without explanation.
4. Benching
Traditionally, “benching” is used to describe players sitting on the sidelines, or bench, during a match. In dating, it’s more like a dating limbo. Sitting on the “bench” means being the backup plan, or second choice, for the person you’re talking to.
5. Love Bombing
Sounds romantic, but it’s not what you think. “Love bombing” is an English dating phrase that describes a tactic to shower someone with excessive affection and attention to gain control and trust.
6. Hookup
To an English native, a hookup is straightforward. It’s a hookups near me situation where the goal is to have sex. But to a non-Native, a hookup can mean grabbing food, finding a service, or a casual hangout with friends.
7. Catfish
A catfish is a delicious fish with a double meaning. Being a “catfish” means someone who creates a profile that doesn’t look like them. Being “catfished” means getting tricked by the catfish profile.
Common Mistakes When Translating Phrases Too Literally
Does being bilingual make you sexy? 71% of Americans and 64% of Britons believe speaking more than one language makes a person seem more attractive. If you can speak like a native English speaker, you’re one step closer to being bilingual.
Watch out for these common mistakes.
Translating Phrases Too Literally
English is full of phrases like “the cat’s got your tongue” and “I have my eyes on you”. When translated literally, these phrases make little to no sense. Remember that there’s always a cultural context to consider when it comes to English.
Not Knowing Double Meanings
Even singular words have double meanings. Words like “sugar” can mean gifts and money, and words like “game” can mean whether someone is a good flirt or not. Just like with phrases, it’s important to understand the cultural context and deeper meaning of things.
Not Consulting the Internet
If the direct translation or word feels out of touch or unfitting for the situation, there’s probably slang or a double meaning behind it. Tools like Urban Dictionary or even just a Google search can reveal lots about English slang and buzzwords.
It Works the Other Way Around
Phrases and words that make sense in your language can make no sense in English. For example, take the Swedish idiom, “Det är ingen ko på isen”. The literal translation is “There’s no cow on the ice,” but the meaning is more about “not needing to worry”. When dating in English, it’s better to stick to English idioms that natives are familiar with.
Go On and Date with More Confidence
English is a difficult language, and mistakes happen. Sometimes, these mistakes can lead to funny moments that people remember. But the potential for miscommunication can be stressful, too.
Feeling stuck? Just go for it. The best way to practice your English dating is to learn from experience. Google and other tools can help, but the best way to learn is by being immersed in the language. Go for it, and you’ll keep improving with time!
