Open relationship
An open relationship is a committed partnership in which both partners agree they may have sexual or romantic connections with other people.
An open relationship is a committed partnership in which both people agree that one or both may pursue sexual — and sometimes romantic — connections with others. It is one of the most common forms of ethical non-monogamy and an umbrella that includes swinging and many personal arrangements.
The defining feature is negotiated openness: partners decide together what is welcome and what is off-limits, and revisit those agreements as they learn what works. Some keep outside connections purely physical; others allow emotional bonds.
Openness is not a shortcut around relationship work — if anything it asks for more communication, not less. Couples who thrive tend to prize honesty, check in regularly, and protect the security of their core bond.
Frequently asked
Not exactly. Open relationships are usually framed around sexual freedom; polyamory specifically allows multiple loving relationships.
They can, when both partners genuinely want it and communicate openly. Forced openness rarely succeeds.