Described by Relationships Australia NSW CEO, Elisabeth Shaw as “an act of intimacy that is not romantic or sexual in nature,” platonic kissing “even on the cheek - is most often reserved for extended family or closer friends, rather than something we would bestow on anyone.”
As long as both parties agree and set parameters, experts say kissing or showing other displays of affection with friends is all right – and the decision remains up to the respective parties alone.
A kiss on the cheek or a peck is a friendly gesture, which does not imply any serious romantic inclination. It only means that they like you but will never be drawn to you romantically.
Platonic kissing is defined as a kiss between two people who are not in a romantic relationship and do not have romantic feelings toward one another. As “kissing the homies” is normalized more within younger generations, students shared their opinions about getting more intimate with their friends.
It's perfectly fine, as long as it's a spontaneous show of affection and as long as one of you doesn't feel awkward about it later. Hugs and pecks are the little magic bulbs of social interactions; they are meant to light up a dull moment - so you should just do it, if you feel like it.
Remember not to actually kiss the person on the cheek. Instead, gently rest your cheek against theirs and kiss the air. There are a select few individuals who insist on kissing others square on the cheek, leaving you to peck the air miles away from their face, but thankfully such experiences are far and few between.
4. Cheek Kiss. A cheek kiss is a simple gesture of greeting or affection that can have a wide array of meanings, depending on the person you share it with. It is extremely common to exchange this type of kiss with friends or family in a completely platonic sense, or even greeting acquaintances in a formal sense.
Platonic flirting is flirting with a platonic friend, with no intention of romance, and no desire for sex. You might find yourself giving your platonic friend compliments, touching their arm, or giggling with them. This can be natural and harmless, as long as both parties feel comfortable.
Platonic cuddling can take place between friends or family members, while romantic cuddling is between romantic partners. There may be some crossover between the two activities, but for the most part, they're separate activities.
Platonic intimacy may include touching, although not sexual. Embracing, hugging, and giving kisses on the cheek are a few examples. Some people may feel that physical contact improves the level of platonic intimacy in a relationship since it can create feelings of trust, safety, compassion, or all three.
It is mostly used as a greeting and/or a farewell, but can also be offered as a congratulation or as a general declaration of friendship or love. Cheek kissing is acceptable between parents and children, family members (though not often two adult males), couples, two female friends or a male friend and a female friend.
Yes, platonic friends can fall in love. This isn't something that happens all the time, but if you're both on the same page, then a relationship that begins from a solid base of friendship can be a really beautiful and long-lasting thing.
It is possible for a platonic relationship to evolve into a romantic one, as emotional intimacy and shared experiences can spark romantic feelings over time. Any transformation should be approached with open communication, mutual consent, and a clear understanding of each individual's desires and boundaries.
Absolutely. Platonic cuddling is a type of close contact between two adults where no romance or sexual activities take place. You can involve lower bodies if you want or just hug each other with the help of the upper body.
The great platonic debate
Don't be fooled by the word “platonic” – it just means nothing physical happened, including kissing and sex. At the end of the day, if you got into bed with someone you're attracted to, chances are it still means something, even if you did nothing but sleep side by side.
You can cuddle and not spoon, but spooning is a specific type of cuddling. Spooning can be platonic, but it can also be used before, during, or after sex. Couples may use it as foreplay before sex, or spoon after sexual activity.
Described by Relationships Australia NSW CEO, Elisabeth Shaw as “an act of intimacy that is not romantic or sexual in nature,” platonic kissing “even on the cheek - is most often reserved for extended family or closer friends, rather than something we would bestow on anyone.”
A squish is an intense feeling of platonic attraction, commonly mistaken with 'just wanting to be friends with someone. ' The equivalent of a crush for other types of attraction. Sometimes used as a catch-all term for other types of non-romantic non-sexual attractions.
He might want a romantic relationship or a stronger bond with you. It may also mean simple affection, love, or appreciation. If it's your first time meeting that person and they give you a good kiss on the cheek, it's a sign that you're very likable.
General Guidelines (No Matter Where You Are)
In most countries where cheek kissing is the norm, you usually offer your right cheek first. No big deal if you both go in opposite directions — just laugh it off. Generally speaking, an air kiss is an air kiss. When in doubt, avoid planting your lips on the other person.
Nope. Gotta have a firm touch of the lips for it to count.
Kiss on the Cheek
A kiss on the cheek can show your affection. This is a versatile kiss, whether you've just started dating a guy and want to communicate that you like him, or you've been with him for a while and just want to show him how sweet you find him.
While cheek kissing is a common greeting in many cultures, each country has a unique way of kissing. In Slovenia, Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Russia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland and Lebanon, it is customary to "kiss three times, on alternate cheeks".