A new US survey finds only 41% of singles expect to meet their one true love, and 1 in 5 people in couples doubt their partner is it. Is there really such a thing as the one?
The online survey of 2,000 US adults (1,000 single, 1,000 in relationships) was run by Talker Research in late August for the brand LELO. Only 26% said they believe someone truly right for them exists, with Gen Z least likely to say so (19%) and Gen X most likely (28%).
What happened
A survey published on 23 September 2026 by Talker Research, commissioned by the brand LELO, asked 2,000 US adults about love and dating. Only 41% of single respondents said they expect to find "the one", and 20% of those in relationships said they doubt their current partner is the one. 56% said they lack confidence in their dating abilities (women 60%, men 47%), and 23% blamed ghosting culture for making dating harder.
Why people disagree
Believers say the idea of a soulmate encourages people to hold out for a deep connection rather than settle, and for many it simply describes how their relationship feels. Sceptics argue that "the one" sets an impossible standard: lasting relationships are built through effort and compatibility, and expecting a single perfect match can make people quicker to doubt a good partner or give up on dating.
What's still unclear
The poll covers US adults only and was commissioned by a company, so it may not reflect views in the UK or elsewhere. It measured attitudes, not outcomes, so it cannot show whether believing in "the one" makes relationships happier or last longer.
Sources
More takes
A new survey says 74% of US knowledge workers do some work on a typical Sunday. A smart head start on a calmer Monday, or should weekends be strictly off-limits?
Singapore can now fine bus passengers up to S$500 for playing audio out loud. Should the UK start fining people who play music or videos without headphones?
