And sometimes explicit sexual talk is considered more offensive than are certain activities involving physical contact, such as kissing and hugging.In flirting, people do not force themselves on others; it is a kind of enjoyable play having the pleasant atmosphere typical of the promise of sexual activity.Flirting may involve gentle physical contact, but often does not involve sexual intercourse.Flirting may develop into a sexual relationship, but then it stops being flirting in the sense discussed here.

In the following description, a married woman having an affair with a married man illustrates the shift from the playful nature of flirting to the more profound nature of a committed romantic relationship: "We flirted with and [sought] each other constantly, until one day we realized we were not just playing anymore.

This site, whose motto is "Married Not Dead," offers the following guide to flirting: Flirting encompasses seemingly contradictory notions: Honesty, with an element of innocence, as well as a mild level of deception (expressed through flattery); caring for others—by listening to and showing interest in them—while not taking them too seriously; being confident and feeling good about yourself, while not attaching too much importance to yourself; and intelligence, flavored by an emotional tone.

All these characteristics are evident in online affairs.

Flirting creates a relaxing, calm, and enjoyable atmosphere.

It involves curiosity, humor, imagination, and empathy.