Talking Stage
The pre-relationship phase of texting and flirting before anyone says what this actually is.
Definition
The talking stage is early dating where two people message, maybe hang out, and test chemistry — but neither has labeled the connection. It is the runway before 'official.' TikTok treats it as its own emotional sport: mixed signals, playlist sharing, and the dread of 'so what are we?'
History
The label spread through Twitter and TikTok dating content in the early 2020s as app culture made undefined early phases longer. It formalized behavior millennials described as 'just talking' but with more meme infrastructure around red flags and delulu hope.
Cultural scores
Editorial estimates of cultural weight — Current Popularity tracks how much people are posting about this now, not historical fame.
Current Popularity = how actively people are posting about this today. Influence = lasting footprint. Cringe = online reception. Brainrot = absurdist energy. How scoring works
Examples
- “We are still in the talking stage — do not ask about Valentine's.”
- “Talking stage 101: goodnight texts but no daytime plans.”
- “She ended the talking stage with one honest voice note.”
Related entries
Culturally linked — not random recommendations.
Situationship
SlangA romantic-ish connection with no label — more than talking, less than official.
Ick
SlangA sudden, inexplicable feeling of disgust or revulsion toward someone you were previously attracted to, triggered by something minor — 'getting the ick' instantly kills romantic interest.
Red Flag / Green Flag
SlangWarning signs vs. good signs in dating and friendship — a TikTok checklist format for relationship behavior.
Rizz
SlangShort for charisma — specifically someone's ability to flirt, charm, or attract romantic interest.
References
Sources behind this entry. Prefer primary reporting and established culture archives over rumor.
- Talking stage — Urban Dictionary
urbandictionary.com