Talking stage definition: what "Talking stage" means and examples

Before the situationship or the relationship comes the "talking stage." This is the phase where two people are texting constantly, "snapping" each other on Snapchat, and testing the waters. There is no physical commitment yet, but there is a clear romantic intent. It is a very delicate stage where one "wrong move" or a "dry" text can end the potential romance entirely. It is a period of high excitement and equally high anxiety, as both parties try to impress each other while playing it cool.

Examples:

1. "We are just in the talking stage right now, so I don't want to get my hopes up too much."
2. "The talking stage ended abruptly when she found out he was still talking to his ex."
3. "How is the talking stage going with that lad from the football team?"