Relationship vs. Taken: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 20, 2024
A relationship is a mutual connection between individuals often involving emotional or romantic bonds, while taken refers to someone who is currently in a committed relationship. Relationship denotes the connection, whereas taken signifies the status.
Key Differences
A relationship is a broad term encompassing various types of connections between people, including friendships, familial bonds, and romantic partnerships. It implies a mutual connection where both parties share interactions and experiences. Taken, on the other hand, specifically refers to someone who is in a committed romantic relationship. It indicates that the person is unavailable for dating or romantic pursuits because they are already romantically involved with someone else.
While a relationship can describe any connection between people, taken is exclusively used in the context of romantic commitments. For instance, someone might have many relationships with friends and family, but if they are taken, they are romantically committed to one person. Relationships can evolve and change over time, whereas being taken denotes a current and specific status.
In social contexts, a relationship often involves public acknowledgment of the connection, whereas being taken is a clear signal to others that someone is not open to romantic advances. Relationships involve ongoing interaction and development, while taken simply states the current romantic commitment.
In terms of emotional dynamics, relationships encompass a wide range of emotions and interactions, from love and support to conflict and resolution. Taken, however, specifically relates to the exclusivity and commitment within a romantic relationship, emphasizing loyalty and monogamy.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Mutual connection between people
Being in a committed romantic relationship
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Scope
Broad, includes various connections
Specific to romantic involvement
Usage Context
Friendships, family, romance
Romantic commitment status
Emotional Dynamics
Wide range of emotions
Emphasizes exclusivity and commitment
Social Implication
Public acknowledgment of connection
Indicates unavailability for dating
Relationship and Taken Definitions
Relationship
A familial connection between relatives.
He has a close relationship with his sister.
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Taken
Currently in a committed romantic relationship.
She is taken and not interested in dating anyone else.
Relationship
An interaction or connection based on mutual interests.
The business relationship between the two companies was beneficial.
Taken
Unavailable for romantic pursuits due to existing commitment.
He proudly declared that he was taken.
Relationship
A bond formed through emotional or social interactions.
She values her relationship with her colleagues.
Taken
Indicates romantic exclusivity.
Being taken means they are loyal to their partner.
Relationship
A romantic partnership between two people.
They decided to take their relationship to the next level.
Taken
Engaged in an exclusive romantic partnership.
They both updated their social media statuses to show they are taken.
Relationship
The condition or fact of being related; connection or association.
Taken
Denotes someone's relationship status as committed.
She wore a ring to signify she was taken.
Relationship
Connection by blood or marriage; kinship.
Taken
Past participle of take.
Relationship
A particular type of connection existing between people related to or having dealings with each other
Has a close relationship with his siblings.
Taken
Infatuated; fond of or attracted to.
He was very taken with the girl, I hear.
Relationship
A romantic or sexual involvement.
Taken
(informal) In a serious romantic relationship.
I can't ask him out, she's taken.
Relationship
Connection or association; the condition of being related.
Taken
Past participle of take
Relationship
(mathematics) The links between the x-values and y-values of ordered pairs of numbers especially coordinates.
Taken
Understood in a certain way; made sense of;
A word taken literally
A smile taken as consent
An open door interpreted as an invitation
Relationship
Kinship; being related by blood or marriage.
Taken
Having possession gained especially by force or effort
Relationship
A romantic or sexual involvement.
They have been in a relationship for ten years, but have never married.
Taken
Be affected with an indisposition;
The child was taken ill
Couldn't tell when he would be taken drunk
Relationship
A way in which two or more people behave and are involved with each other
I have a good working relationship with my boss.
Relationship
(music) The level or degree of affinity between keys, chords and tones.
Relationship
The state of being related by kindred, affinity, or other alliance.
Relationship
A relation between people; (`relationship' is often used where `relation' would serve, as in `the relationship between inflation and unemployment', but the preferred usage of `relationship' is for human relations or states of relatedness);
The relationship between mothers and their children
Relationship
A state of connectedness between people (especially an emotional connection);
He didn't want his wife to know of the relationship
Relationship
A state involving mutual dealings between people or parties or countries
Relationship
State of relatedness or connection by blood or marriage or adoption
Relationship
A connection or association between individuals.
Their relationship grew stronger over the years.
FAQs
Can someone have multiple relationships?
Yes, people can have multiple relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
What is a relationship?
A relationship is a mutual connection between individuals, which can be romantic, familial, or social.
Is being taken always romantic?
Yes, taken specifically refers to being in a romantic relationship.
What changes when someone is taken?
When someone is taken, they are no longer available for romantic relationships with others.
What does taken mean?
Taken refers to someone who is currently in a committed romantic relationship.
Can someone be taken and still have other relationships?
Yes, being taken refers to romantic commitment, but they can still have other non-romantic relationships.
What signifies a relationship?
A relationship is signified by ongoing interactions, emotional bonds, and mutual experiences.
How does a relationship evolve?
Relationships evolve through shared experiences, communication, and emotional bonding.
What signifies being taken?
Being taken is signified by exclusivity in a romantic relationship and unavailability for dating.
Is a relationship always romantic?
No, relationships can be platonic, familial, or professional as well.
Can relationships be non-romantic?
Yes, relationships can be friendships, family bonds, or professional associations.
What are the types of relationships?
Types of relationships include romantic, familial, friendships, and professional connections.
How is a relationship maintained?
Relationships are maintained through communication, trust, and mutual respect.
Can a relationship end?
Yes, relationships can end due to various reasons like conflicts or changes in life circumstances.
What is the importance of being taken?
Being taken provides emotional security and signifies a committed romantic partnership.
What is the importance of a relationship?
Relationships provide emotional support, companionship, and social connections.
Does being taken imply a long-term commitment?
Being taken implies a current commitment, which may be long-term or short-term.
How is being taken communicated?
Being taken is often communicated through social media status, rings, or verbal declaration.
Does being taken mean exclusivity?
Yes, taken means the person is exclusively committed to their partner.
Can the status of being taken change?
Yes, the status of being taken can change if the relationship ends.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
