My boyfriend is best friends with his ex-girlfriend.They dated for two and a half years, broke up 5 years ago, have many mutual friends.

Dating is a stage of romantic or sexual relationships in humans whereby two people meet socially, possibly as friends or with the aim of each assessing the other's suitability as a prospective partner in a more committed intimate relationship or marriage.

It can be a form of courtship that consists of social activities done by the couple.

These people will have dates on a regular basis, and they may or may not be having sexual relations.

This period of courtship is sometimes seen as a precursor to engagement or marriage.

The protocols and practices of dating, and the terms used to describe it, vary considerably from country to country and over time.