No Strings Attached (NSA)

Updated: JANUARY 5, 2022

Reviewed by Kinkly Staff

on January 5, 2022

No strings attached (NSA) is a phrase used to describe a relationship that is exclusively sexual in nature. As an acronym, NSA is often used on dating sites when people are looking for a sexual relationship without any commitments or even emotional connection. Usually, people in an NSA relationship try to limit their interactions to just sex.

The origins of this term are unknown, but it was first added to Urban Dictionary in a sexual context in 2018. The more common definition of no strings attached - the offer of something without any special conditions - has long been used in a non-sexual context.

More About No Strings Attached (NSA)

The benefits of a no-strings-attached relationship include uncommitted casual sex, the ability to pursue different options, and the opportunity to keep things light and casual. Because feelings often arise between sexual partners, it's important to be honest with partners when a no-strings-attached encounter is what you're seeking to ensure the other person feels the same and does not feel used, hurt or unimportant.