A matter or event that is of concern or interest, such as a public issue or private business. It can also mean a romantic or sexual relationship, especially a secret one outside of marriage.
From Old French *afaire* “business, matter,” from *a faire* “to do,” based on Latin *facere* “to do, make.” It originally meant “things to be done” or “business.”
‘Affair’ started out as a neutral word for business or matters, but in modern English it often hints at romance or scandal. When people say ‘a love affair,’ they’re literally calling romance a piece of personal business.
In the sense of a romantic or sexual affair, women have historically faced harsher judgment, legal penalties, and reputational damage than men for similar behavior. Media narratives about 'having an affair' often reflect double standards and gendered blame.
When referring to relationships, describe all parties with parallel language and avoid gendered slurs or moral double standards.
["relationship","extramarital relationship","matter","event","case"]
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