 A related sense of the term is when two people have been out in public only a few times but have not yet committed to a relationship; in this sense, "dating" describes an initial trial period and can be contrasted with "being in a committed relationship".One of the main purposes of dating is for two or more people to evaluate one another's suitability as a long term companion or spouse.Often physical characteristics, personality, financial status, and other aspects of the involved persons are judged and, as a result, feelings can be hurt and confidence shaken.