Definition

Noun: The condition of being married or unmarried; the specific state of a person in relation to marriage according to the law or custom of a country.

Usage

"Marital status" is a formal term used in official documents, surveys, and legal contexts to categorize a person's relationship status. It is typically used as a singular noun phrase.

Examples

• Please indicate your marital status on the application form.
• The survey collected data on age, income, and marital status.
• Her marital status changed from 'single' to 'married' last year.

Advanced Usage

• "To ask about one's marital status": To inquire whether someone is single, married, divorced, etc.
  • It is sometimes considered impolite to ask about someone's marital status in casual conversation.
• "Protected characteristic": In many jurisdictions, marital status is a protected category under anti-discrimination laws.
  • Employers cannot make hiring decisions based on an applicant's marital status.

Variants and Related Words

• Marital (adjective): Of or relating to marriage.
  • They sought marital counseling.
• Status (noun): The relative social, professional, or legal standing of someone or something.
  • His immigration status is pending.

Common Categories

While specific categories can vary, common designations for marital status include: * Single * Married * Divorced * Widowed * Separated * In a civil partnership / Civil union

Synonyms

• Relationship status
• Civil status (used in some legal systems)

Notes

The term specifically refers to a legal or formal condition. It does not describe the quality of a relationship (e.g., happy, strained). Informal relationship terms like "dating," "engaged," or "in a relationship" are often not considered formal marital statuses for official purposes.

Noun

1. the condition of being married or unmarried