Ambiguous Language

I've stressed the complications of dating in college- and just when I thought it couldn't get more complicated, I realized this concept only grows deeper with language. Just talking, hooking-up, friends with benefits and then there's my favorite- open relationships. These words are all used to avoid the dreaded concept of commitment. When did the simple word dating become so complex? Peter Osinski, 22-year-old Towson senior has been "hooking up" with a girl for over two years. Not dating, hooking up. He says that he doesn't want to give his relationship an actual title because he wants to keep his options open.

The ever unclear "hooking up" seems to be the most widespread phrase favored by college students. I hear it everywhere. A 2001 study of college women sponsored by the Independent Women's Forum, an advocacy group, found that "hooking up" was defined as when "a girl and a guy get together for a physical encounter and don't necessarily expect anything further," with the definition of a physical encounter ranging anywhere from kissing to having sex. My thoughts? Booty Call!