ghosting
Ghosting refers to the act of suddenly ending a personal relationship—most commonly a romantic one—by cutting off all communication without explanation. The mental image is that of a person vanishing into thin air like a spirit, leaving the other party confused, ignored, and searching for answers in a digital void. This term is heavily associated with modern dating apps and social media, where the barrier to disappearing is low. While it is primarily used for romantic contexts, it is increasingly used in professional settings to describe a candidate or employer who suddenly stops responding to emails or interview requests. It carries a negative connotation of cowardice or lack of emotional maturity.
In conversation
Checking in with a friend
Are you still talking to that guy from Hinge?
Are you still talking to that guy from Hinge?
No, he totally ghosted me after our second date.
No, he totally ghosted me after our second date.
Used here to explain a sudden disappearance after a period of active interest.
Discussing a job applicant
Did the developer show up for the interview?
Did the developer show up for the interview?
No, they ghosted us. I haven't heard back in three days.
No, they ghosted us. I haven't heard back in three days.
Demonstrates the usage of the term in a professional context.
Examples
I think he is ghosting me.
I think he is ghosting me.
Ghosting someone is considered very rude in modern dating.
Ghosting someone is considered very rude in modern dating.
Rather than ghosting, it is better to provide a brief explanation for why you want to end things.
Rather than ghosting, it is better to provide a brief explanation for why you want to end things.
