Here’s how the sentimental and sweet – and, OK, occasionally moody – water sign matches with each of the 12 signs of the zodiac.

Maressa Brown is a journalist and astrologer who’s a regular lifestyle contributor and resident astrologer for InStyle. She has nearly two decades of professional experience writing, reporting, and editing lifestyle content for a variety of digital and print consumer-facing publications including Parents, Shape, Astrology, and more. She is currently based in Los Angeles and completing her first title with Artisan Books to be published in early 2023.

If you believe everything you read on social media, you’re probably convinced that all Capricorns are snoozefest workaholics, Sagittarians are soapboxy zealots, and Scorpios are scary as hell. Every sign is subject to overgeneralized, often negative stereotypes in the world of quippy tweets and speedily scrolled-through memes. While they might not be as polarizing as, say, tough-to-pin-down Geminis, those born under the cardinal water sign Cancer are often pegged as overly sentimental crybabies and stage five clingers for life.

The truth is far more nuanced. Every sign has its strengths and weaknesses and will hit it off with some signs more than others. Ruled by the intuitive moon, Cancers are innate caregivers who are uniquely in tune with their own and their loved ones’ emotions. They’re compassionate, nurturing mush balls who are quick to protect their sensitive hearts when they sense they could get hurt. And because they’re the ruler of the fourth house of home and family, they thrive when they have a tranquil, secure domestic life. If you’re similarly family-oriented and in tune with your feelings, you’ll probably get along well with a Cancer.

Cancer and Aries Compatibility – Problematic Pair

Aries, the first sign of the zodiac and the cardinal fire sign, and Cancer are square, or three signs apart, from one another, which can be a challenging – or in the best case scenario – activating angle. Both cardinal signs are big-picture thinkers who excel at initiation but might need a bit of hand-holding when it comes to follow-through. They can join forces and take on sweeping projects in a bold, take-charge way. But while both are natural-born leaders, Cancer’s sweet, thoughtful sensitivity could conflict with Aries’ fiery, fast-paced competitive M.O. Respecting one another’s emotional process is integral to getting on the same page.

Cancer and Taurus Compatibility – Ideal Match

Taurus, the fixed earth sign, and Cancer are sextile, or two signs apart, from one another, making for a friendly, easygoing relationship. In fact, these two signs make for one of the sweetest, most organically compatible pairings of the whole zodiac. The Bull’s slow, security-loving vibe harmonizes with the Crab’s heartfelt homebody personality. Both are innately nurturing, loyal, and commit their heart and soul to a relationship they’re invested in. They also tend to adore the same sensual experiences (like a sumptuous, home-cooked meal). In a romantic bond, this can make for an extremely emotionally – and in turn, physically – satisfying expression of mutual feelings.

Cancer and Gemini Compatibility

Cancer is semisextile, https://besthookupwebsites.org/local-hookup/red-deer/ or one sign apart, from Gemini, the mutable air sign, which can create some friction between partners. Where the Twins can be super-cerebral, leading with their mind, the Crab can be incredibly emotional, allowing their heart to run the show. Mercury, Gemini’s ruling planet, is faster-paced than the intuitive, luminous moon, which can throw off the energy balance between these two as well. But if they can make an effort to open their minds and hearts to one another’s needs, they can build a lasting bond through lots of communication.