6 Signs You Are In A Romantic Friendship With Someone

Sometimes, relationships start off as friendships and gradually evolve into romantic partnerships.

However, there are situations where two people remain friends but develop romantic feelings for each other without formally entering a relationship. In such cases, they find themselves in a space where they are more than friends but not officially dating — a state often referred to as a romantic friendship.

This article explores the concept of romantic friendship — what it means, and the signs that you might be in one.

A romantic friendship, also known as an affectionate or passionate friendship, is a close, non-sexual bond between friends that may involve intimate behaviors like cuddling, holding hands, kissing, or even sharing a bed.

What sets romantic friendships apart from typical friendships is the deeper emotional connection and open expression of affection. Unlike platonic friends, those in romantic friendships often express their love freely and sincerely, acknowledging their feelings without hesitation. These bonds can form between people of the opposite sex or the same sex.

To gain a deeper understanding of romantic friendships, consider reading the study “The Friends-to-Lovers Pathway to Romance” by Danu Anthony Stinson and others. The research delves into a dimension of romance that is often overlooked in traditional relationship science.

# You take a genuine interest in each other's hobbies

One of the signs you're in a romantic friendship is when you both show enthusiasm for each other's interests. If you notice that your friend is excited about your passions, supports your efforts, and even offers helpful suggestions, it’s a strong indication of a deeper connection. Even when your motivation wanes, they encourage you to keep going and they may even get involved in your hobbies simply because they care about you.

# Your friends or family tease you about being a couple

If your loved ones often joke that you and your friend act like a couple, they may be picking up on a bond you haven't fully realized yet. Sometimes, outsiders can see emotional connections more clearly. If your friend also jokes about how you two resemble a couple, mentioning your shared interests and compatibility, it could be a hint that the relationship is deeper than you thought.

# You feel jealous when they spend time with others

Feeling a twinge of jealousy when your friend gets close to someone else could be a sign you're in a romantic friendship. While you understand they have every right to other friendships, you might feel uneasy when someone else starts to spend a lot of time with them. This protective feeling often signals that your bond is more emotionally charged than a typical friendship.

# You’re always eager to lend a hand

While friends naturally help each other, a heightened eagerness to assist going above and beyond without a second thought can suggest a romantic attachment. If you find yourself prioritizing their needs and feeling personally fulfilled by helping them, your connection might be more than just friendly.

# They stick close to you in social settings

Another sign of a romantic friendship is when they gravitate toward you in group settings. Even when there are plenty of other places to sit or people to talk to, they instinctively choose to stay close. This physical proximity often happens naturally because being near you feels comforting and right something that others around you might notice even if you don’t.

# You communicate frequently and intimately

Friends usually stay in touch, but in a romantic friendship, communication often becomes more regular and meaningful. Unlike casual catch-ups with other friends, you both make an effort to talk daily, sharing not just updates but emotional moments too. You might even notice a subtle romantic tone in messages, like affectionate good morning texts that go beyond the usual “hey, what’s up?”