As an English teacher, I have been creating content for both Korean learners and global English learners. This blog is where I share the expressions and slang I cover in my lessons — and today’s word comes straight from the world of sports: benching.
What is “benching”?
In sports, a benched player sits on the sideline — not playing, but not cut from the team either.
In dating, benching means keeping someone around as a backup option. They’re not your first choice, but you don’t want to let them go completely either.
Real life examples:
- “He never commits but never lets me go either — I’m being benched.”
- “She’s benching three guys at once while she figures out what she wants.”
- “I waited six months before I realized I was just on his bench.”
- “Don’t let anyone bench you — you deserve to be someone’s first choice.”
- “He only texts me when things don’t work out with someone else. Classic benching.”
Signs you’re being benched:
- They show up when it’s convenient for them
- You’re never their first priority
- They disappear for weeks then come back like nothing happened
- You always feel like you’re waiting for your turn
Similar expressions:
- Breadcrumbing — gives just enough attention to keep you hooked
- Ghosting — disappears completely
- Cushioning — dating others while in a relationship, just in case
Quick recap:
Benching = you’re on the team but never in the game. You deserve to be a starter — not someone’s backup plan.
Want to learn more natural English?
Hi, I’m Yehs Sam 👋 I have been teaching English and creating content to help learners sound more natural and confident — for both Korean learners and global English learners.
🐢⚡ Turtle Zeus — Slow but surely, we get there.
Is there a slang word or English expression you’ve always wanted to know? Drop it in the comments below — I’d love to cover it in my next post!
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