The Dating Gazette
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‹ Modern dating glossary
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Delusionship

/dɪˈluː.ʒən.ʃɪp/

A relationship that exists mostly in one person's head: sustained daydreaming over someone barely known, or barely interested. The noun form of delulu.

Etymology & origin

A portmanteau of 'delusion' and 'relationship', stemming from the internet slang term 'delulu'.

✦ Relationship psychology

A form of romantic escapism. It protects the daydreamer from the actual risks, rejections, and vulnerabilities of real-life dating by creating a perfect, flawless fantasy partner.

Live texting example
I literally made eye contact with the cute guy on the subway today and we are basically married in my head now. My delusionship is thriving!
Boundary guide: how to respond
  1. 1Enjoy the fun daydreaming, but don't let it block you from pursuing real, mutual connections.
  2. 2Ground yourself: Remind yourself that you don't actually know this person's personality yet.

In use since 2023

#fantasy#delulu#daydreaming#crush
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