dating is mostly about determining the intentions behind why youre meeting up. If someone wants to hang out, then they are not interested in you romantically. The flirting is a sign that they are thinking of you in that way. If the flirting is present, then its a date.
Does hanging out count as a date?
To clarify the concept date as a basic dating definition can be useful from the outset. So, hanging out can be understood as a more casual version of dating. Its spending time with someone that you are attracted to, but dont necessarily see as a potential relationship partner.
What is counted as dating?
“Dating” means youre going on dates. You are actively getting out there and meeting people and spending time with them. “Dating someone” means youre seeing somebody specific, with purpose and on a regular basis. Youre spending time with a person (or persons) in hopes of finding a committed relationship.