A relationship status somewhere between open and exclusive, meaning that some aspects are exclusive (
e.g. holding hands, kissing, or
sex) whereas others - such as meeting new people, flirting, or interacting on
dating websites - are not. The exclusive aspects are defined for the particular relationship, with the idea behind a
semi-exclusivity being that both people are in a trusting situation where neither feels like their emotional needs are not met.
Matt: If you are not ready for an exclusive relationship, but want more commitment than an open relationship, then why don't we try a
semi-exclusive relationship...
Gina: A what!!
Semi-exclusive relationship!? That's the most
ridiculous thing I've ever heard!
Matt: Oh, really?! It's when some things are exclusive, but others aren't - it's a way to be exclusive where it counts without making the other person feel restricted if they feel a need to spend time with other people .... in some
semi-exclusive relationships all the bases are exclusive, so people can meet new people for non-physical things that look like dates, but they are just meeting new people to talk - in others people can meet others and
kiss but certain bases like
sex are off limits. It just depends on what is exclusive. If that's
something you prefer to a fully open or completely closed relationship, then we need to talk about what's important to each of us in maintaining our freedoms and be honest about the things we each need to be open about and those we want to be exclusive about.
