People use love to mean a feeling, a commitment, or the care built into everyday life. The word covers a lot. On its own, it cannot tell you whether a relationship is kind or right for you.

A feeling, and a way of relating

Warmth and longing can be part of love. So can the less dramatic things: keeping a promise, listening when something is difficult, and respecting a no. How people treat each other over time tells you more than intensity alone.

Love has more than one shape

Romantic love is only one form. Friendship, family ties, community and compassion can all offer belonging and meaning. A life without a romantic relationship is not a life without love.

A useful question

Rather than measuring how intense the feeling is, notice what happens between you. Can you disagree? Do you feel able to say no? Do you both make an effort after a hurt? Those details are often more useful than finding the perfect definition.

Sources for this guide

Romantic relationships — APA Dictionary of PsychologyMaintaining healthy relationships and mental wellbeing — NHS