Unless some life changing event prompted it in and they are taking a break from everything to reflect, I would certainly see it as a break up attempt.

Just a ploy to string you along until other options are exhausted.

I don't know. While its possible, I don't put much stock in it. To me yeah, its seems like a gentler version of ghosting but it's still not okay. I think the idea is if you keep asking for space they'll push back or come to the realization that there's something wrong. Depends on the person though I guess, some people really do need space. I'd look to see how they act around other people, and see if it lines up.

I guess I'm not very trusting, but to me it may as well be "we need to talk"

There are folks who really do need to have space. It is not impossible to consider that a person could be full on in love with another person, but their need for privacy is such that a little bit goes a long way... likely if this is truly upsetting to a relationship, that person has some form of what we would consider a disorder.

That said, it's a high probability that it's a way of breaking up. It could be that they know they are unhappy and this is a cowards way out. It could be that this is a subconcious reaction (they haven't really realized why they "need space" yet) and thus they are in the process of discovering that the relationship is not for them.

Think about it this way. You meet someone, and they are fun to be with (initially) so you hang out with them. You gravitate to a new set of people you hang with (their group) and you like it. BUT, as time goes by, you find yourself going to the group, ostensibly with that person, but you realize that you like the group more, without that person. Your initial discomfort may not be immediately known. You just have an uncomfortable feeling with the group and, hey, can't be that first person you met who was so cool back in the day, can it?

It can, and it might take time to realize it. So, asking for space at that point might be their way of really realizing that things have changed and they really don't know it yet. At least, not at a fully conscious level.

Edit: sure, they would be fun to be sith, the force is so boring.

its a gentle chicken shit way of breaking up with you. being a couple is a compromise that you choose because you care. haven't they been thinking about it to even say it? what space is it they mean? it's bullshit.

Yes. Say "OK" and immediately carry on with your life after phone number blocked, all texts, emails, and pics erased. Release his/her control over your feelings and emotions. Don't allow them any power. Just: Delete. Delete. Delete. Block.

What are you trying to tell me -- that you don't want to see me anymore?

Liked what @A2Jennifer said. Can you ask this person what they need space and time for? If asking this question isn't possible then that's not a good sign. Is this coming out of nowhere or is there some context for this? I have definitely been in your shoes so I know it's not easy but please try to be honest with yourself.

It could be, yes, but it varies from person to person. No two relationships are the same and each has its own set of complications. To me, it means some dynamic has shifted between us and we need to reassess what we both want. That doesn't necessarily mean a break-up is imminent, it's merely a time-out period to explore and reestablish certain boundaries, if required.

I think you know the answer. It's a break-up.

Alot of times the need space or time alone, etc however its said means they are thinking of moving on, but not always in every realtionship is this true

My most recent girlfriend was a widow (no kids) who told me she needed some space on the anniversary of her late husband’s death. Two weeks after that she broke up with me because she wasn’t ready for an actual relationship. So yeah, probably.

It sounds like 'This isn't fun anymore.' to me.

Yep, it is a cowards way of pushing someone away,
just like you just happen to be busy every day the other asks you out,

I don't want to be the bearer of bad news, but I can't see anything good in that.

It could just mean, "I want to screw around, but keep my options open." or it could be a way to cushion the blow.

I don't break up... I don't commit... I postpone things for a different era. I change schools, move to another state or move to another country. Been like that for over 50 years. My way to be. There are in some of my relationships... unresolved issues to be addressed when the time is right. I know... I am Terrible. And there is always those that reminded me... "how we allowed ourselves be cheated off a good thing?" ...and my answer always the same, "I don't know how it happened, I don't know what to tell you". The Art of Letting Go.

I would think in many cases it’s a way of breaking up without having to do the breaking up. But this could also depend on the individual and the circumstances. Some people genuinely need more alone time and may be trying to set boundaries in the Relationship. I know it’s a cliche but it Is such a vague thing to say!

Speaking as a guy, and I shouldn't be telling you this, but that always means whoever it is is doing someone else. That's what "space in a relationship" means to guys.