Mr. Zabel said in the statement that Mr. Soros, 80, did have an "on-again, off-again and non-exclusive relationship" with Ms. Ferreyr, which lasted from about 2006 to 2010.

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In cases where there is a conflict of goals and desires, the On-Off relationship can be the perfect arrangement for a couple not looking for marriage or even cohabitation (yes, these couples exist).

FORBES: In Praise Of The On-Off Relationship

Mobile operators know the consumer market, the result of a long, on-again, off-again relationship with consumers who sign-up, leave and then in many cases come back again.

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He told officers he and Miss Harrison had an on-off relationship during the three years they were together, with him sometimes living with his wife.

BBC: Kevin Doherty

That case was settled, and Brown and Hynie had an on-again, off-again relationship until he died.

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Lewis and Planter had an on-again, off-again relationship at the time of the killing, the prosecutor said.

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Siegel and Shuster had an on-again, off-again relationship with DC, often suing over their rights, but ultimately returning to work for DC each time.

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Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel, it seems, are caught in the grip of the On-Off relationship.

FORBES: In Praise Of The On-Off Relationship

While the frisson of the On-Off relationship can provide sexy drama for a TV series (think of Sam and Diane of Cheers or Carrie and Mr. Big in Sex and the City), in every day life, these relationships are either not taken seriously or are strictly frowned upon.

FORBES: In Praise Of The On-Off Relationship