Ever wondered what counts as cheating today? It’s not always about dramatic affairs like Mark King in The Other Woman, who had a full-blown secret life. Sometimes, it’s the small stuff—those sneaky acts of microcheating that slip under the radar. Imagine catching yourself liking an old flame’s post or engaging in a flirtatious chat with a colleague. It’s not outright betrayal, but it definitely tests boundaries.

Micro-cheating, according to the Urban Dictionary, involves seemingly innocent actions that still blur the lines of a committed relationship. It’s a bit like Dr. Taub from House MD—not breaking the rules, just cleverly skirting around them. Let’s take a look at these tiny transgressions and how they can cause big trouble. Some examples of micro-cheating include:

Mentioning, “If I weren’t in a relationship …”

You’ve probably daydreamed about how different life might be if you were single again. Dropping lines like “If only I were free…” might seem innocent, but it’s like wishing on a star in broad daylight—more wishful thinking than anything else.

Sharing knowing glances when your partner isn’t around

It’s a form of silent flirtation that speaks louder than words. The next time you exchange that special look, consider how it might come across to an outsider looking in.

Meeting someone secretly without your partner knowing

Secrecy often breeds suspicion. Keeping these encounters under wraps suggests you might be hiding something. 

Sending covert messages to someone

If you’re slipping your phone away whenever a new text arrives, it’s probably more than just friendly chat. Consider how you’d feel if your partner was texting someone similarly.

Following questionable accounts on social media

You know those accounts that are just a bit too provocative or questionable? If you’re following or liking things that your partner wouldn’t be thrilled about, it’s a clear sign of boundary-testing. 

Talking about your intimate desires with someone who isn’t your partner

Why would you share your personal fantasies with someone that isn’t in a relationship with you? Keep in mind, sharing intimate details elsewhere will definitely spark more issues than you expect.

Making flirtatious jokes

Yeah! Sometimes you just throw out cheeky comments to others just to see their reaction? If your jokes are making someone blush or giggle, they’re probably not as innocent as you think. Remember, what seems like fun can be misconstrued as flirting.

Asking someone inappropriate questions

Asking these questions might seem like harmless curiosity, but they can be interpreted differently. If you’re digging too deep, you might be crossing a line that’s best left uncrossed. 

Claiming to be single when you’re not

If you’re doing this you might as well make the decision to leave. If you’re passing yourself off as available, you’re definitely testing boundaries.

Creating a profile on a dating app or website

This is just hands down wrong. Even if it’s just for fun, it can stir up jealousy and confusion. Think about the message you’re sending.

Trying to catch someone’s romantic attention

If you’re putting on a show just to be noticed, it’s more than just harmless flirting. Trying to catch someone’s eye can make your partner feel undervalued. Most times, seeking attention elsewhere can be a recipe for trouble.

Trying to impress someone you’re attracted to

If you’re trying hard to make a good impression, you might be neglecting your own relationship. Impressing others could mean you’re losing sight of what’s important at home.

Sending revealing photos to someone

Those photos might seem like harmless fun, but your partner will not be comfortable with that. You need to think twice before hitting send.

Maintaining secret friendships

Keeping certain friendships hidden from your partner? It’s like having a secret stash of sweets—exciting but potentially troublesome. If you’re being secretive about your friends, it might mean there’s more going on. Secrecy often leads to speculation and suspicion.

Complaining about your partner to someone else

There’s no need airing dirty laundry where it doesn’t belong. Be cautious about who you confide in—gossip can often come back to bite.

Turning to another person for emotional support when your relationship is rocky

Relying on another person for emotional support can stir up confusion and jealousy. Sometimes, reaching out elsewhere can complicate things further.