“Love in the time of” references may be passe, but even with an ongoing pandemic, what if you're single and just want to meet someone?

Time spent in self-isolation, working from home, and avoiding places like bars and clubs means the chances of hitting it off with a potential partner are pretty slim. As with working and socializing, going online offers a safer alternative for those wanting to start romantic relationships during the COVID-19 crisis and, maybe, for the foreseeable future. But the spread of the virus is not only changing the way people date — it’s changing what singles are looking for.

According to a recent survey conducted by popular dating app Pairs, 30 percent of respondents between ages 20 and 39 said that their desire to partner up has increased during the pandemic. Not only that, but the same survey also revealed that having a similar moral compass and sharing values is integral; 18 percent of respondents stated their “view on love has changed,” with some even saying they “don't feel comfortable dating somebody who didn’t ‘stay home’ while the Japanese government has advised people to do so,” despite compliance being voluntary. Similarly, a survey conducted by Japan-based dating app Dine reported that one in four women now place importance on a potential partner’s morality.