Expert issues warning on unspoken dating stage used by Love Islanders

In the nine years (!) that it's graced our television screens, Love Island has introduced countless words and phrases to the English language.

In fact, when it comes to the seemingly unnavigable world of modern day dating, the much-loved ITV2 dating series has paved the way in determining the numerous stages of romance.

And apparently, one of the most recent instalments of the Maya Jama-fronted hit has seen added a new turn of phrase to the list of Love Island lingo - 'closed off'.

As we say, aside from yelling 'I'VE GOT A TEXT!' every time they receive a phone notification, viewers of the show have added a stream of dating phrases to their vocab.

The likes of 'grafting', 'cracking on', being 'mugged off', describing your 'type on paper', 'pulling' someone 'for a chat' - all of which have their grounds in the reality TV show, which was first introduced to screens all the way back in 2015 and initially fronted by the late great presenter Caroline Flack.

The sheer popularity of Love Island has meant that a lot of these terms have found a place in the romantic realms of modern day society.

Where we once went from boyfriend/girlfriend, to fiancés, to husband/wife, we now have to side step through countless other dating phases in a bid to pin down 'the One'.

With that in mind, dating expert Hayley Quinn has issued a warning about the risks of neglecting the 'closed off' stage of a courtship.

Ciaran and Nicole have described themselves as 'closed off' in recent weeks. (ITV)

Speaking exclusively to Tyla, the relationship guru firstly explained what is meant by the popular phase, which is heard ceaselessly on the show - especially when a new bombshell is hoping to strike up a romance with someone in a pretty secure couple.

"Closed off is the stage before a couple becomes exclusive," Hayley explained. "Where they wouldn't be open to getting to know anyone new who strolls into the villa."

In turn, she hopes to make daters aware that, if your love interest asks that the two of you become 'closed off', this doesn't mean - like exclusivity - that you're only seeing one another.

Though 'closed off' implies that you're less open to get to know someone else, your potential other-half definitely does not have an obligation solely to you at this stage.

"This is often a dating stage we see in the real world too, where before you've had 'the conversation' about commitment," Hayley continued.

It looks as though Jess wants to be 'closed off' with Ayo, but he is still 'open' to Mimii. (ITV)

"If you really like someone, it becomes seriously hard to go on dates with other people."

Alternatively, if your partner asks to be 'open' - another term made popular by recent instalments of the show - it means they don't want to put any labels on your romance whatsoever.

"If you're open to getting to know other people, you've definitely got more than a wandering eye!" Hayley warned.

"Being open means you're not convinced about your current pairing, and want to get to know new people. In the real world we might just call this 'being single'."

Asked what she'd advise someone whose partner wants to remain 'open', the expert added: "Crack on!

"Saying you're going to 'crack on' on Love Island is a battle cry to get ready for some serious flirting. If you see someone you like, by 'cracking on' you're putting yourself out there to get to know them.

Grace is still very 'open' to finding Mr Right. (ITV)

"In the real world whilst most people would love to 'crack on' more, in reality most people feel too hesitant to make a move IRL even if they really fancy someone."

Good to know - thanks, Hayley!