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catch feelings

What does catch feelings mean?

To start feeling genuine emotional attachment to someone, especially in a situation that was supposed to stay casual. The classic complication of a hookup or situationship.

"It was just supposed to be a sneaky link but I caught feelings."

Origin

Common colloquial phrasing; widespread in hip-hop and internet culture.

Frequently asked questions

What does catch feelings mean?
It means developing genuine romantic feelings for someone, especially in a situation that was meant to stay casual.
Why is catching feelings seen as a complication?
Because it usually happens in casual setups like a hookup or situationship, where developing real attachment disrupts the no-strings arrangement.
Where does the phrase catch feelings come from?
It's common colloquial phrasing that spread widely through hip-hop and internet culture.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.