"Affair" and "adultery" are related terms that often refer to romantic or sexual involvement outside of a committed relationship or marriage. However, there is a subtle difference in their usage and connotations:
- Affair: An affair generally refers to a romantic or sexual relationship that occurs between two people, at least one of whom is already in a committed relationship with someone else. It typically involves emotional intimacy, and it may or may not include physical intimacy. Affair partners may be emotionally invested in each other and engage in secretive behavior to keep the relationship hidden from their respective partners.
An affair can occur in various contexts, such as extramarital affairs (between married individuals), or in situations where one or both individuals are in a committed relationship with someone else (e.g., committed long-term relationships or partnerships).
- Adultery: Adultery specifically refers to a marital infidelity or a situation where one or both spouses engage in extramarital relationships. In this case, at least one of the partners involved is married to someone else. Adultery is viewed as a breach of trust and fidelity within the context of marriage.
While an affair can involve individuals who are not married, adultery exclusively involves married individuals who are having intimate relations with someone other than their spouse.
In summary, an affair is a broader term that encompasses extramarital relationships in general, while adultery specifically refers to infidelity within a marriage. Both terms involve breaches of trust and can have significant emotional consequences for the individuals involved and their partners. It's important for individuals in committed relationships to communicate openly, maintain trust, and address any issues that may arise to foster a healthy and strong bond.