What's happening?

Today is Valentine's DayOriginally a Christian feast day honouring St Valentine, 14 February is now celebrated as a day of romance in many cultures. . But some people are choosing not to join in. Some 35% of the UK population is single and the figure is on the rise.

Many of these single people say they are happier that way. They can focus on themselves, their hobbies or their career.

More and more celebrities are choosing to live a single life - or, as Emma WatsonA British actress, best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series. puts, to be "self-partnered".

In fact, people who live alone can actually be less lonely than people in relationships. Sometimes, when people get into a relationship they spend less time with friends and other important people.

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But staying single is not all fun and games. One study found a single person in Britain will have to spend around £10,640 more a year than an averageTypical or usual. couple. And other single people still say they want to find a romantic relationship.

Is this a turning point?

Yes! The number of people who are choosing to stay single is growing. In the future, most or even all of us will choose not to take part in romance.

No! Most adults are still married - and lots of single people are still looking for a partner. There is no reason to think that everyone will want to be single in the future.