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breadcrumbing

English → EnglishcasualslangInstant · from the shared dictionary
breadcrumbing

Breadcrumbing refers to the act of giving someone just enough attention or affection to keep them interested, without ever intending to commit or move the relationship forward. The imagery comes from the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel, where the characters leave a trail of breadcrumbs to mark their path; in dating, you are leaving a "trail" of small, inconsistent messages to ensure the other person stays nearby, waiting for more. The term is almost exclusively used in the context of modern dating and digital communication. It carries a negative connotation, implying that the person doing the "breadcrumbing" is being manipulative, selfish, or indecisive. It is often used to describe someone who sends occasional "hey" texts or likes social media posts just to keep an option open, while avoiding actual dates or serious conversation.

In conversation

Discussing a crush

I thought Mark liked me, but he only texts once every two weeks.

I thought Mark liked me, but he only texts once every two weeks.

Honestly, he’s breadcrumbing you. Don't waste your energy.

Honestly, he’s breadcrumbing you. Don't waste your energy.

Used to warn someone that they are being strung along.

Ending a situationship

I’m done with the breadcrumbing. If you want to see me, make a plan.

I’m done with the breadcrumbing. If you want to see me, make a plan.

I didn't mean to, I've just been really busy lately.

I didn't mean to, I've just been really busy lately.

Used to confront a partner about their inconsistent behavior.

Examples

  1. He has been breadcrumbing her for months by liking her photos but never asking her out.

    He has been breadcrumbing her for months by liking her photos but never asking her out.

  2. I realized I was being breadcrumbed when he only reached out whenever he felt bored.

    I realized I was being breadcrumbed when he only reached out whenever he felt bored.

  3. Stop settling for breadcrumbing; you deserve someone who is consistent and clear about their intentions.

    Stop settling for breadcrumbing; you deserve someone who is consistent and clear about their intentions.

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