Okay, so you’ve probably heard these terms flying around: situationship and friends with benefits. And maybe, just maybe, you’ve found yourself in one or even both without fully realizing it. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. These days, a lot of people are ditching traditional relationships and going for something a little… less defined. But here’s the thing a situationship and FWB are not the same thing, even if they kind of look similar on the surface.
Let’s start with situationships. You know that kind of connection where you’re talking all the time, spending time together, maybe even hooking up, but no one has said what it actually is? That’s a situationship. It feels like a relationship, but when someone asks, “What are you guys?” you’re suddenly like, “Uhh… it’s complicated.” And it really is. Because you’re probably doing relationship things, texting good morning, going on dates, maybe even meeting each other’s friends — but there’s no title. No agreement. Just vibes. And honestly? That “vibes” thing can get messy real fast, especially when one person starts catching deeper feelings while the other is just coasting.
Now compare that to friends with benefits. This one’s a bit more straightforward at least in theory. It’s exactly what it sounds like: two friends who hook up, with zero romantic expectations. No strings, no “good morning, babe” texts, no “Where’s this going?” chats. You’re cool, you’re friends, and occasionally, you do the grown-up. It’s chill… until it’s not. Because the moment feelings creep in, which, let’s be honest, they often do, that clean FWB line starts to blur, and suddenly you’re in a whole different territory.
So here’s the difference in simple terms: Situationships come with emotions, even if nobody wants to admit it. FWBs are built on the idea that emotions should stay out. Situationships are confusing, mostly because people avoid having “the talk.” FWBs are clear from the jump, at least when both people are honest about what they want.
That said, both of these setups can get real messy if you’re not communicating. Like, don’t just vibe and hope for the best. Talk. Be honest. Ask yourself: Am I okay with this arrangement? Do we both want the same thing? Or am I secretly hoping it turns into more? Because that’s where things get dangerous, when one person is playing it cool while secretly wanting something deeper.
At the end of the day, neither situationships nor FWBs are “bad.” They just require a level of self-awareness and communication that most people tend to skip. So if you’re in one or think you might be, take a minute and check in with yourself. Are you really fine with the setup, or are you just scared to ask for more?
Because here’s the truth: even casual things deserve clarity. And you? You deserve to know exactly where you stand.
