Birth Charts 101: Understanding the Planets and Their Meanings
The planets with short orbits move across the zodiac frequently and where they are in a natal chart is specific to an individual's date and time ...
gauge romantic compatibility
For centuries, astrology was at the heart of science, medicine, philosophy, and magic. The Hermetic axiom "as above, so below" signified the belief that the vast, mysterious macrocosm of the universe reflects the microcosm of humans' experiences. The advent of the telescope and the corresponding discovery of the so-called "modern planets" — Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto — completed the celestial puzzle. Though the function of astrology has changed (it's now more frequently used to <anchor>gauge romantic compatibility</anchor> than to predict the fate of the harvest), today we still observe the planets as the ancient Babylonians did.
Zodiac Signs Compatibility: Which Zodiac Sign Is Best to Date vs. Avoid | Allure
In the stars

# Zodiac Love Compatibility: Which Signs to Date — and Which to Avoid

Sure, it's a little more complicated than sun signs, but it's still fun to think about.

February 12, 2020

zodiac signs compatibility

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For many folks on the dating scene, zodiac signs compatibility is one of the first questions that comes to mind.  W hether you're straight, queer, monogamous, or polyamorous, the pick-up line "what's your sign?" is as useful, although incomplete. Yes, understanding someone's sun sign, and how that relates to your own, along with each zodiac sign's personality traits is a useful tool in understanding the complexities of your relationship. Your sun sign is determined by your birthday, literally where the sun is at your time of birth, and represents your core personality. The most common technique to determine compatibility is based on elements. Some say that you are always best matched with another fire, earth, air, or water sign. Another approach is to consider your opposite sign (the sign that occurs during your half-birthday): While opposite sign matches can often have a bit of an odd-couple vibe, the counterbalance within these pairs makes for some of the most dynamic duos. As Allure's resident astrologer, I must challenge this. You can be compatible with any sign in the stars.

Aas our understanding of love is evolving, so is our understanding of astrology. While sun signs are a fun start, for a full compatibility reading, you must look at both your and your potential match's entire chart. For instance, your Venus sign indicates how you approach romance while your Mars sign can indicate how you initiate sex. Your rising horoscope can indicate the mask you present to your partner, especially early in relationships. If you know your birth time, you can do a birth chart reading with a quick internet search. And while you're at it, take time to learn what the 12 houses in your birth chart mean, and you'll know so much about your potential partner that they don't stand a chance.

Love is an exciting, scary, and powerful thing — use the cosmic compatibility guide ahead to discover your most and least compatible sun signs and help make sense of it all. Of course, the most accurate assessment will come from the lived experience the universe provides you. Have fun reading who you may be most compatible with, but if you find someone who treats you well and you're sexually compatible with, do not end things based on their sun sign. And remember: All relationships require hard work, dedication, mutual respect, and trust.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Aries — the first sign of the zodiac — are known for their fiery energy, exciting impulsivity, and insatiable desire to be the best. Their ruling planet is warrior Mars, after all. On a great day, dating an Aries is like partnering with a fierce, unstoppable warrior. On a bad day, however, Aries' strong will and temper tantrums can become juvenile. They may become cranky if they don't have enough physical affection, including snuggling and sex. As a result, their zodiac signs compatibility works well sensual signs ruled by Venus, such as Taurus or Libra, to help even out their intensity. In addition to Libra and Taurus, all the air and earth signs can help mellow out these rams when the connection is right.

Coupling with an Aries is not for the faint of heart, but fellow fire signs Leo and Sagittarius have no problem keeping up with these spirited rams. However, two fire signs need to be mindful of fights and make an extra effort to listen to one another to avoid a constant shouting match. If an Aries pairs with an emotional water sign, such as Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces, they will need to practice patience to ensure they don't accidentally hurt their sensitive feelings.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Tauruses are earth signs known for their practicality, romanticism, and appreciation for the finer things in life. They love indulging the senses through soft fabrics, enchanting aromas, and delicious cuisine. Their sensuality translates to the bedroom, and a Taurus will make lovemaking into a decadent experience one never forgets. Pragmatic Virgo and hardworking Capricorn are enchanted by the bull's Venusian qualities and admire their awareness of life’s luxuries.

Opposite sign Scorpio is also an interesting match for Taurus: Scorpio and Taurus are both associated with transformation (represented by autumn and spring), and when matched, these inverted signs can share valuable lessons about change and regeneration.

This sign also has a reputation for being hard-headed and stubborn. Taureans may find their horns locked with fellow obstinate signs Leos and Aquarians. None of these signs like to budge, so a partnership with either of these signs can often feel like arm-wrestling (or super hot foreplay). Taureans who find themselves involved with a Leo or Aquarius should focus on compromise, patience, and flexibility to ensure a healthy, forward-moving relationship.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Gemini has a reputation for being the heartbreaker of the zodiac. On a bad day, can be flighty and unreliable. As a result, sensitive water signs, or devoted fire signs, may get fed up. Geminis are Mercurial air signs and the social butterflies of the stars. They need constant stimulation through communication and daily adventures. And yes, that consistent stimulation rule applies to the bedroom, so, hey, sensitive Scorpio might be a great fit because while they're emotional, they're also the sign of sex.

Geminis are natural wordsmiths and like-minded air signs Libra and Aquarius sincerely appreciate their clever wit and vivacious intellectualism. For this sign, however, opposites really attract: The Sagittarius and Gemini match is one of the most dynamic pairings of the zodiac. These inverted signs are both natural wanderers, and when linked, they can form an incredibly creative, fun-loving power couple.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Cancer is a water sign ruled by the moon. Although lunar Cancers are extremely sensitive creatures, they need to establish trust and loyalty before revealing their vulnerabilities. They do come with claws, after all, and a hard shell to retreat into. Accordingly, fellow water signs Scorpio and Pisces make terrific partners for sweet crabs, as they are known for their incredible intuition and psychic abilities. When coupled, these signs can often communicate through nonverbal (perhaps even telepathic) expressions.

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Though a less emotional sign, hardworking Capricorns and fellow earth signs Virgo and Taurus sincerely appreciate Cancerian sensitivity and make excellent nesting partners for home-loving Cancers. This sign may struggle with confrontation, and like their astrological spirit animal (the crab), they prefer sidestepping difficult situations. As a result, if a Cancer pairs with air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), they will need to work on practicing healthy communication rather than falling into avoidant tendencies.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Leos rule the jungle, and you have to let them feel majestic; these lions are ruled by the sun. These theatrical fire signs are known for their passionate extravagance, enterprising creativity, and cinematic romances. Getting it on with one of them is a royal experience one never forgets. Like-minded fire signs embrace their magnetic charisma and are comforted by their lion lover's loyalty and warmth. The opposite sign, Aquarius is also a compelling match for this regal sign: While Leo represents the ruler, Aquarius symbolizes the people. When paired, these two signs can create a powerful checks-and-balances system for each other in terms of zodiac signs compatibility.

The other air signs, Libra and Gemini, are more prideful than Aquarius, so they will need to work on complementing, not competing with their Leo partner. And as for the water signs? As noted, you must examine someone's entire chart and how they treat you, but Leo's ego may hurt sensitive water signs at times. As a result, the Leo needs to remember that Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces need extra attention, too. Finally, earth signs, such as Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, may provide a much-appreciated grounding influence on the roaring lion.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Earth sign Virgos are known for their extreme intellectualism and attention to detail. Ruled by Mercury, they are always processing information and prefer expressing themselves through logical and rational communication. They are perpetual list-makers, and these pragmatic signs feel most grounded and stable when paired with fellow earth signs Taurus and Capricorn. These earth signs also value Virgo’s analytical eye and attention to detail.

Opposite sign Pisces is a terrific match for Virgo: Both of these signs love being helpful, and while Virgos lend a more practical hand for assistance around the house, Pisces is a skilled emotional healer. And as for the other water signs, Scorpio's curious nature complements Virgo well, while Cancers will bond with them over the importance of a happy home. And if a fire sign falls for a Virgo, expect them to ignite Virgo's inner kinkster, and magic to happen in the bedroom.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Libras are charming, dapper air signs who enjoy connoisseurship and are often found admiring modern artwork at a gallery, sipping wine in a vineyard, or shopping for the finest clothing. They are also one of the most epic flirts of the zodiac. Fellow air signs Gemini (who gives Libra a run for their money on the flirting front) and Aquarius deeply admire this Venusian sign's appreciation for art and culture and enjoy cultivating their refined tastes within these well-matched air sign partnerships.

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Libras, represented by the scales, love being in pairs, making Aries a nd fellow fire signs Sagittarius and Leo an exciting partner. Aries are known for their fierce independence, so when these two signs couple, they often create compelling counterbalances (as reflected in the infamous duo Bonnie and Clyde). Often, this sociable sign can become overly consumed with their public image. This people-pleasing sensibility may rub Cancers and the other water signs the wrong way, so Libra should prove their dedication by paying extra attention to their lover (especially in group settings).

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Scorpio is one of the most intense signs of the zodiac. These powerful water signs use their incredible intuition to manifest their goals and approach their passions with relentless dedication. It’s no surprise that they also make extremely dedicated lovers, and they make love like their life (and your soul) depends on it. While some signs balk at Scorpio’s intensity, fellow water signs Cancer and Pisces embrace Scorpio energy.

This sign is also recognized for its magnetic sexuality. Their sexual appetite is best satiated by its opposite sign: Taurus is considered the most sensual sign of the zodiac, so when matched with ravenous Scorpio, this couple makes for a truly erotic pairing. While on paper, Taurus pairs best with Scorpio, fellow Earth signs Capricorn and Virgo will also enjoy hot sex while providing Scorpios with a secure and safe partner. The most challenging signs for Scorpios can be air signs, as they tend to be elusive, and Scorpios do not hide. If you try to avoid a relationship conversation with them, they will come for you with their stinger.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Sagittarius, symbolized by the archer, is always ready for an adventure. These fire signs are natural philosophers, scholars, and explorers, recognized for their captivating storytelling and infectious humor. They tend to have epic sex drives and can even be quite the heartbreaker. They key to winning over a Sag is to let them keep their freedom. Like-minded fellow fire signs Aries and Leo perfectly complement the Sagittarian wildfire: Opposite sign Gemini is also a terrific match, because both Gemini and Sagittarius believe in living life to its fullest, and these inverted signs may support each other’s journeys toward self-actualization. Additionally, the other air signs, Aquarius and Libra, will find that Sagittarius helps turn their thoughts and dreams into action.

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Since this sign is always chasing its arrow, these archers have a reputation for being unreliable and fickle. Sentimental Pisces and the other water signs can be easily wounded by Sag’s no-bullshit approach to life. Sag should make sure to treat their lover like their copilot. Include your earth or water sign in your adventures and don’t forget to apologize for any hurt feelings (yes, Sag, even if you didn’t mean to hurt them).

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Ambitious Capricorns work hard to build safety and security in their lives. They aspire to create solid foundations for their careers, homes, and romantic partnerships. That being said, they are represented by the Devil Card in tarot and play as hard as they work. They may look like business on the outside but these sea goats are kinky on the inside. As a result, Capricorn surprisingly pairs well with sexy Scorpio, although the other water signs (Pisces and Cancer) will have to work on not taking Capricorn's cold nature personally.

Capricorn’s fastidious approach to life is not for everyone. Fiery Aries and agreeable Libra can become frustrated by their stoicism and Capricorn can also grow exhausted by the flippant nature of these signs. When dating an Aries or Libra, Capricorn must remember that their lovers are not their assistants and that the best partnerships are those built from mutual respect.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Progressive Aquarians are known for their humanitarianism. These air signs enjoy high-level thinking and are motivated by egalitarian-minded work that inspires, revolutionizes, and improves society. The water bearer's romantic downfall may be that they can pay more attention to society at large than those close to them. Like-minded air signs Gemini and Libra appreciate Aquarian energy; their big-picture visioning sets the stage for Gemini to explore and Libra to perform, so this sign really does well with fellow air signs.  When Aquarius pairs with a Leo, or another fire sign, the air and fire combination could make a surprisingly dynamic duo. As Leo represents the king and Aquarius symbolizes the people, this couple has a comprehensive understanding of societal complexities.

At times, Aquarian idealism can become righteous. As a result, grounded earth signs such as Taurus and sensitive water signs like Scorpio may feel attacked by their strict morality and Aquarians can be put off by these signs’ hedonistic tendencies. Aquarius should work on becoming more tolerant of different world views and learn to appreciate the raw physicality of these highly sensual signs.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Otherworldly Pisces are known for their sweet dispositions, enchanting creativity, and powerful clairvoyance. This water sign (the last of the zodiac) can pick up on energies, auras, and nonverbal expressions. They are very open-minded and can do well in open relationships. Like-minded sea creatures, Cancers and Scorpios are great matches for them. They can also create a strong partnership with its opposite sign, Virgo. Virgos and Pisces are both generous, and these two signs can benefit from each other’s kindness and support.

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Pisces can be easily wounded, and fast-talking Gemini and Sagittarius can become frustrated by their delicate ego. Gemini and Sag, meanwhile, may inadvertently hurt their feelings, causing these gentle fishies to swim away. If partnered with a Gemini or Sag, Pisces should remember not to take things too personally and consider emulating some of these signs’ extroverted sensibilities. However, because Pisces is the last and wisest sign of the zodiac, they are magical enough to make a relationship with any sign work.

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Aliza Kelly is a New York-based astrologer, occultist, and writer. She is the author of The Mixology of Astrology (Adams Media/Simon Schuster), Starring You: A Guided Journey Through Astrology (little bee books), and This Is Your Destiny (Macmillan) and hosts the weekly podcast, Stars Like Us. Her writing... Read more

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Astrology Writer

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