Mon · 13 Jul 2026
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Social

Chatting

Talking or flirting romantically with someone, often online or via text. A lighter, more casual version of dating or courting. Teens use it to describe early-stage romantic interest without commitment.

How kids use it

"Are you chatting with anyone?" or "He's been chatting to her"

Is “Chatting” something to worry about?

No — "Chatting" is ordinary 2026 teen vocabulary, not a warning sign. Knowing it just makes you harder to talk past.

  • Use it slightly wrong at dinner. You’ll get an eye-roll and a free vocabulary lesson.
  • If you’re seeing it alongside apps you don’t recognize, run the 30-second check Is it safe? checker

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