Marriage vs Living Together
Marriage and living together are two different situations that involve a committed relationship between two individuals. Marriage is a legally binding contract between two people, while living together, also known as cohabitation, involves two people residing in the same house or apartment without a legal agreement. In more conservative societies, living together without being married is often frowned upon. However, it has become more common in the modern world, particularly among younger generations. One significant difference between the two is that marriage is a recognized institution, while living together is not.
What is Marriage?
Marriage is a legally binding union between two individuals, typically a man and a woman. It is often formalized through a ceremony called a wedding. In a marriage, a sexual relationship is not only accepted but also expected. Marriages can be formed either through the mutual love and preference of the partners or through an arranged process, where the families of the partners choose the most suitable spouse for their child. Although arranged marriages were more prevalent in the past, particularly in countries like India, most people in modern times prefer to marry someone of their own choosing. In some religions, marriage is considered sacred, as it forms the basis for society and its future. Many young people today prefer to live together before getting married, as it allows them to become better acquainted with each other and build a stronger relationship.
What is Living Together?
Living together, or cohabiting, involves two people who are in a committed relationship sharing the same living space. These partners typically have a sexual relationship, although they are not legally married. Unlike marriage, living together is not formalized by any ceremony or social event. While sexual relationships often occur in cohabiting situations, they are not explicitly required or expected. Sometimes, living together is based solely on friendship, as when a woman lives with a man out of gratitude or a man lives with a widow or spinster due to companionship. Living together can also result from a broken marriage when separated spouses seek solace in a non-legal partnership. Living together is not governed by any contractual agreements, nor is it bound by laws or legal procedures. Unlike marriage, living together cannot be broken by legal means. Instead, it can continue indefinitely or end at any time, depending on the preferences of the partners. Cohabitation is often seen as a way for couples to better understand each other and become familiar with each other’s habits, likes, and dislikes before deciding to marry.
Key Takeaways
- Marriage is a legally binding union formalized by a wedding ceremony, while living together is an informal arrangement without legal obligations.
- Marriage may be arranged by families or based on the partners’ preferences, whereas living together is always a voluntary choice made by the individuals involved.
- Living together is often seen as a way for couples to better understand each other and build a stronger relationship before committing to marriage.
