Top 43 Slang For Affair – Meaning & Usage

Top “Slang For Affair”

Ever wondered how people discreetly refer to extramarital affairs in today’s world? Look no further! We’ve gathered the most intriguing and commonly used slang terms for affair that will leave you both entertained and informed. Stay ahead of the curve and delve into this list to brush up on your knowledge of the secret language surrounding affairs.

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1. Playing away

This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who is having an affair outside of their committed relationship or marriage.

For example, “He’s been playing away with his secretary for months.”
In a gossip conversation, someone might say, “I heard she’s been playing away behind her partner’s back.”
A friend might advise, “If you’re not happy in your relationship, communicate instead of playing away.”

2. Stepping out

This phrase refers to being unfaithful to a committed partner by engaging in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone else.

For instance, “She found out that he’s been stepping out with his co-worker.”
In a discussion about infidelity, someone might say, “Stepping out is a betrayal of trust in a relationship.”
A therapist might ask, “Have you considered why you’re stepping out instead of addressing the issues in your relationship?”

3. Fooling around

This phrase is often used to describe engaging in sexual activities with someone other than one’s partner, without any intention of pursuing a serious relationship.

For example, “They were fooling around at the party last night.”
In a conversation about boundaries in relationships, someone might say, “Fooling around is considered a breach of trust.”
A friend might warn, “Be careful not to hurt your partner by fooling around.”

4. Seeing someone on the side

This phrase is used to describe being involved with someone romantically or sexually while being in a committed relationship with someone else.

For instance, “He’s been seeing someone on the side while his wife is away.”
In a discussion about loyalty, someone might say, “Seeing someone on the side is a form of emotional betrayal.”
A relationship counselor might ask, “What are your motivations for seeing someone on the side instead of addressing the issues in your current relationship?”

5. Having a bit on the side

This phrase is commonly used to describe having a secret romantic or sexual relationship outside of a committed partnership or marriage.

For example, “She’s been having a bit on the side with her neighbor.”
In a conversation about trust, someone might say, “Having a bit on the side is a violation of the commitment made in a relationship.”
A friend might advise, “Instead of having a bit on the side, consider discussing your needs with your partner.”

6. Straying

This term refers to being unfaithful to one’s partner by engaging in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone else. It implies that the person has gone astray from their committed relationship.

For example, a friend might ask, “Have you heard about John? He’s been straying from his wife and seeing someone else.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Straying is a breach of trust and can be devastating to a relationship.”
A person might confess, “I made a mistake and ended up straying, but I deeply regret it now.”

7. Two-timing

This slang term refers to the act of being in a relationship or having a romantic connection with two people at the same time. It implies deceit and dishonesty towards both partners.

For instance, a person might say, “I found out my partner has been two-timing me with their ex.”
In a discussion about infidelity, someone might comment, “Two-timing is a betrayal of trust and can cause immense pain to all parties involved.”
A friend might warn, “Be careful, he has a reputation for two-timing his partners.”

8. Having a fling

This phrase refers to a short-term and often intense romantic or sexual relationship outside of a committed partnership. It implies that the affair is not expected to be long-lasting or serious.

For example, a person might say, “I had a fling with a coworker while on a business trip.”
In a conversation about casual relationships, someone might comment, “Having a fling can be exciting but also risky if emotions get involved.”
A person might share, “I regret having a fling, as it caused complications in my marriage.”

9. Being unfaithful

This term encompasses any act of betrayal or breach of trust within a committed partnership. It refers to engaging in romantic or sexual activities with someone outside of the relationship.

For instance, a person might say, “She found out I was being unfaithful and ended our relationship.”
In a discussion about loyalty, someone might state, “Being unfaithful is a violation of the commitment made in a monogamous relationship.”
A friend might advise, “If you’re unhappy, communicate with your partner instead of being unfaithful.”

10. Having a secret lover

This phrase describes the act of engaging in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone while keeping it hidden from a committed partner. It implies that the affair is kept confidential and unknown to others.

For example, a person might confess, “I’ve been having a secret lover for the past year.”
In a conversation about trust, someone might comment, “Having a secret lover shows a lack of honesty and respect in a relationship.”
A friend might ask, “Why are you risking your relationship by having a secret lover?”

11. Having a rendezvous

This phrase refers to a secret meeting between two people, usually for romantic or illicit purposes. It implies a sense of excitement and secrecy.

For example, “They had a rendezvous at a hotel to avoid being seen together.”
In a scandalous novel, a character might plan a rendezvous with their secret lover.
A friend might ask, “Did you have a rendezvous with your new fling?”

12. Having a tryst

A tryst commonly refers to a secret meeting between two people, typically for romantic or sexual purposes. It suggests a brief, passionate encounter.

For instance, “They had a tryst in a secluded park after dark.”
In a steamy romance novel, a character might describe their tryst with a mysterious stranger.
A gossip magazine might report, “The celebrity couple was caught having a late-night tryst.”

13. Being a homewrecker

This term is used to describe a person who is involved in an affair with someone who is already in a committed relationship. It implies that the affair is causing harm or destruction to the existing relationship.

For example, “She was accused of being a homewrecker after her affair with a married man was exposed.”
A friend might warn, “Be careful not to be labeled as a homewrecker by getting involved with someone who’s already taken.”
A tabloid headline might read, “Famous actress accused of being a homewrecker in scandalous affair.”

14. Having a clandestine affair

A clandestine affair refers to a secret romantic relationship between two people. It suggests that the affair is intentionally hidden or kept secret from others.

For instance, “They had a clandestine affair that lasted for years without anyone finding out.”
In a suspenseful movie, a character might be involved in a clandestine affair with a dangerous individual.
A therapist might advise, “Clandestine affairs can be emotionally damaging and should be approached with caution.”

15. Being a mistress

Being a mistress refers to a woman who is engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship with a married man. It implies that the woman is aware of the man’s marital status and willingly participates in the affair.

For example, “She knew she was the man’s mistress, but she continued the affair regardless.”
In a scandalous novel, a character might be portrayed as a seductive mistress.
A friend might ask, “Are you okay being the man’s mistress, or do you want something more serious?”

16. Tryst

A tryst refers to a secret meeting or rendezvous between two people, usually for romantic or illicit purposes. It implies a sense of secrecy and excitement.

For example, “They had a tryst in a secluded cabin in the woods.”
A person might say, “I’m going to have a tryst with my lover at a fancy hotel.”
In a scandalous story, someone might be caught in a tryst with a mysterious stranger.

17. Liaison

A liaison is a secret or illicit affair between two people. It can also refer to a person who acts as a go-between or intermediary in a relationship.

For instance, “He had a secret liaison with his coworker.”
A person might say, “I’m having a liaison with someone who is not my spouse.”
In a novel, a character might have a secret liaison with a forbidden lover.

18. Clandestine affair

A clandestine affair refers to a secretive and often illicit romantic relationship between two people. It implies that the affair is hidden and kept secret from others.

For example, “They engaged in a clandestine affair behind their partner’s back.”
A person might say, “I’m involved in a clandestine affair with a married person.”
In a movie, a character might have a clandestine affair with a spy.

19. Extramarital affair

An extramarital affair refers to a romantic or sexual relationship that takes place outside of a person’s marriage. It implies a breach of trust and fidelity.

For instance, “He had an extramarital affair with his secretary.”
A person might say, “I regret having an extramarital affair.”
In a TV show, a character might have a scandalous extramarital affair.

20. Secret rendezvous

A secret rendezvous refers to a private and often romantic meeting between two people. It implies a sense of excitement and secrecy.

For example, “They had a secret rendezvous in a secluded park.”
A person might say, “I’m planning a secret rendezvous with my lover.”
In a novel, the protagonist might have a secret rendezvous with a mysterious stranger.

21. Forbidden romance

This refers to a romantic relationship that is considered off-limits or prohibited due to various reasons, such as societal norms, existing commitments, or moral boundaries.

For example, “They had a forbidden romance that spanned years, hidden from their families.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Forbidden romances can be thrilling but also come with a lot of complications.”
A character in a novel might describe their experience as, “It was a forbidden romance, filled with stolen moments and hidden desires.”

22. Illicit affair

An illicit affair refers to a secret and often sexually involved relationship between two individuals who are not married or committed to each other.

For instance, “They engaged in an illicit affair behind their partners’ backs.”
In a conversation about infidelity, someone might share, “I know someone who had an illicit affair and it completely destroyed their marriage.”
A character in a movie might confess, “I got caught up in an illicit affair and it turned my life upside down.”

23. Covert affair

A covert affair is a secretive romantic or sexual relationship that is intentionally kept hidden from others, typically due to the participants’ desire to maintain privacy or avoid consequences.

For example, “They had a covert affair, meeting in secret and communicating through encrypted messages.”
In a discussion about affairs, someone might comment, “Covert affairs require a lot of effort to maintain, as the participants must constantly be cautious.”
A character in a TV show might reveal, “I’m having a covert affair with my boss, and it’s starting to get complicated.”

24. Steamy affair

A steamy affair refers to a romantic or sexual relationship that is characterized by intense passion, desire, and excitement.

For instance, “They had a steamy affair that ignited a fire within them.”
In a conversation about affairs, someone might share, “A steamy affair can be incredibly thrilling but also dangerous.”
A character in a novel might describe their experience as, “It was a steamy affair, filled with passion and moments of pure ecstasy.”

25. Love affair

A love affair describes a romantic relationship that occurs outside of an existing committed partnership or marriage. It typically involves strong emotional connections and feelings of love.

For example, “They had a love affair that brought them happiness but also guilt.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Love affairs can be complicated, as they often involve conflicting emotions.”
A character in a movie might confess, “I fell into a love affair and it made me question everything I thought I knew about love.”

26. Secret affair

A secret affair refers to a romantic or sexual relationship that is kept hidden from others, often because one or both parties are already in a committed relationship. It implies secrecy and discretion.

For example, “They had a secret affair that lasted for years without their spouses knowing.”
In a conversation about infidelity, someone might say, “Having a secret affair can lead to feelings of guilt and betrayal.”
A character in a novel might confess, “I couldn’t resist the temptation and ended up having a secret affair.”

27. Undercover affair

An undercover affair refers to a clandestine romantic or sexual relationship that is conducted in secret, often due to the disapproval or potential consequences if it were to be discovered.

For instance, “They had an undercover affair while working together, afraid of the professional repercussions.”
In a discussion about workplace romances, someone might share, “I know a couple who had an undercover affair for years before they finally went public.”
A character in a movie might say, “We need to keep our relationship an undercover affair until the time is right.”

28. Hush-hush affair

A hush-hush affair refers to a secretive romantic or sexual relationship that is kept quiet and not openly discussed or acknowledged.

For example, “They had a hush-hush affair that only a few close friends knew about.”
In a conversation about scandalous relationships, someone might comment, “Hush-hush affairs have a way of causing drama and hurting people.”
A character in a TV show might say, “Let’s keep our affair hush-hush to avoid any unnecessary complications.”

29. Sneaky affair

A sneaky affair refers to a secretive romantic or sexual relationship that involves deception or stealthy behavior to avoid detection or suspicion.

For instance, “They had a sneaky affair, always finding ways to meet without their partners finding out.”
In a discussion about trust in relationships, someone might argue, “Sneaky affairs are a breach of trust and can cause irreparable damage.”
A character in a novel might confess, “I felt a thrill in having a sneaky affair, but deep down I knew it was wrong.”

30. Backdoor affair

A backdoor affair refers to a secret romantic or sexual relationship that is conducted discreetly and away from the prying eyes of others.

For example, “They had a backdoor affair, meeting in secret locations to avoid being seen.”
In a conversation about forbidden love, someone might share, “Backdoor affairs often involve a lot of lying and sneaking around.”
A character in a movie might say, “We need to be careful and keep our affair a backdoor secret to protect our reputations.”

31. Clandestine romance

A clandestine romance refers to a secret love affair that is kept hidden from others. It involves two people who are in a committed relationship but engage in a romantic relationship with someone else.

For example, “She had a clandestine romance with her coworker for months without her partner knowing.”
In a discussion about infidelity, one might say, “Clandestine romances can be emotionally damaging to all parties involved.”
A friend might ask, “Do you think he’s having a clandestine romance with his neighbor?”

32. Jump off

The term “jump off” is slang for a casual sexual partner, often used to describe someone with whom one engages in a short-term or non-committed sexual relationship.

For instance, “He’s been seeing his jump off for a few weeks now.”
In a conversation about casual sex, one might say, “Having a jump off can provide a level of sexual satisfaction without the emotional commitment.”
A friend might ask, “Are you looking for a jump off or something more serious?”

33. Wandering eye

Having a wandering eye means having a tendency to be attracted to other people while in a committed relationship. It implies that someone is not entirely faithful or loyal to their partner.

For example, “He has a wandering eye and often flirts with other people even though he’s in a relationship.”
In a discussion about trust in relationships, one might say, “Having a wandering eye can be a sign of dissatisfaction or lack of commitment.”
A friend might ask, “Do you think his wandering eye is causing problems in their relationship?”

34. Love on the side

Love on the side refers to a secret romantic relationship that is kept hidden from others. It involves two people who are in a committed relationship but engage in a romantic relationship with someone else on the side.

For instance, “She had love on the side with her coworker while still being in a relationship with her partner.”
In a conversation about infidelity, one might say, “Love on the side can lead to emotional turmoil and the breakdown of trust.”
A friend might ask, “Do you think he’s seeking love on the side because he’s unhappy in his relationship?”

35. Back door action

Back door action is slang for secret sexual encounters that are kept hidden from others. It refers to engaging in sexual activities with someone other than one’s partner, often without their knowledge or consent.

For example, “He’s been having back door action with his neighbor while his partner is away.”
In a discussion about infidelity, one might say, “Back door action can lead to feelings of guilt and betrayal.”
A friend might ask, “Have you ever had back door action? What was it like?”

36. Keeping a secret

This phrase refers to the act of keeping an affair hidden from others. It implies that the individuals involved are discreet and careful not to reveal their secret relationship.

For example, a person might say, “They’ve been keeping a secret for years, no one had any idea they were having an affair.”
In a discussion about infidelity, someone might comment, “It takes a lot of effort to keep a secret affair hidden for so long.”
A friend might ask, “Are you sure they’re keeping a secret? They seem so happy together.”

37. Hush-hush

This term is used to describe something that is kept secret or confidential, including an affair. It suggests that the affair is not openly discussed or acknowledged.

For instance, someone might say, “Their relationship is hush-hush, nobody knows about it.”
In a conversation about scandalous behavior, a person might comment, “Affairs are often kept hush-hush to avoid public shame.”
A gossip might whisper, “I heard a rumor that they’re involved in something hush-hush.”

38. Illicit relationship

This phrase refers to a relationship that is considered improper or forbidden because it involves one or both parties being unfaithful to their current partner.

For example, a person might say, “He’s involved in an illicit relationship with his coworker.”
In a discussion about the consequences of infidelity, someone might comment, “Illicit relationships can cause significant damage to all parties involved.”
A friend might ask, “Do you think they’ll end their illicit relationship and work on their marriage?”

39. Under the radar

This phrase suggests that the affair is being conducted discreetly and without drawing attention from others. It implies that the individuals involved are intentionally keeping their actions hidden.

For instance, someone might say, “They’re having an affair but managing to stay under the radar.”
In a conversation about infidelity, a person might comment, “Affairs that go under the radar are often the most difficult to discover.”
A suspicious friend might ask, “Do you think they’re being careful enough to stay under the radar?”

40. Behind closed doors

This phrase refers to activities or events that occur in private, away from the public eye. In the context of an affair, it suggests that the relationship is kept hidden from others and takes place behind closed doors.

For example, a person might say, “Their affair is all happening behind closed doors, nobody knows about it.”
In a discussion about infidelity, someone might comment, “Many affairs take place behind closed doors, making them difficult to uncover.”
A concerned friend might ask, “Are they spending a lot of time together behind closed doors? It could be a sign of an affair.”

41. Off the record

When something is off the record, it means it is not intended for public knowledge or discussion. It often refers to information that is shared privately or confidentially.

For example, a journalist might say, “Can we go off the record for a moment?”
In a conversation about sensitive topics, someone might add, “This is off the record, but…”
A politician might request, “Keep this information off the record until the press conference.”

42. Under wraps

When something is under wraps, it means it is being kept secret or hidden from public knowledge. It implies that the information or situation is not meant to be known by others.

For instance, a person might say, “I can’t tell you yet, it’s still under wraps.”
In a discussion about a surprise party, someone might mention, “We need to keep the details under wraps to avoid spoiling the surprise.”
A company might announce, “We have an exciting new product in development, but it’s still under wraps for now.”

43. Forbidden love

Forbidden love refers to a romantic relationship that is considered illicit or prohibited. It often implies that the individuals involved face obstacles or challenges due to societal, cultural, or personal reasons.

For example, a person might say, “We knew it was wrong, but we couldn’t resist the allure of forbidden love.”
In a discussion about literature or films, someone might mention, “The story revolves around the protagonists’ forbidden love.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “I have no regrets about my forbidden love affair; it taught me valuable lessons.”