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A water sign ruled by the moon, Cancers are known for their emotional depth and nurturing nature. They’re often considered the mother of the zodiac, and their sensitivity and intuition make them natural caretakers in both love and life. 1
But, how does the crab fare in the realm of compatibility? Let’s explore the mysteries and complexities of Cancer’s love life, the traits that make them unique in relationships, and their best and worst matches.
Cancer personality traits
Ruled by the moon that goes through phases of light and darkness, Cancers possess a complexity to their personality. They have various traits that make them stand out among the other signs of the zodiac.
1. Emotional
Known for their deep emotions, Cancers are incredibly sensitive and empathetic individuals. This means that they feel things intensely and can be easily affected by the energies of others. 2
2. Intuitive
Their emotional depth also gives them a strong intuition, allowing them to sense what others are feeling without being told. This makes them excellent at empathizing with others and providing support when needed. 2
3. Nurturing
Cancers are natural caretakers, always putting the needs of their loved ones before their own. They have a strong maternal instinct and enjoy taking care of others in both practical and emotional ways. 3
4. Moody
Due to their ruling planet, Cancers can experience intense mood swings, going from happy to sullen in a matter of moments. This can make them difficult for others to understand and navigate at times. 3
5. Protective
Because Jupiter is also strong in Cancer, people who have this sign prominent in their chart can be very protective of their family and friends. They will go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of their loved ones. 2
6. Imaginative
Cancers have a vivid imagination and a creative mind, often being drawn to artistic pursuits or hobbies. Their emotional depth also adds intensity and passion to their creative endeavors. 3
7. Impractical
At times, Cancers can be overly idealistic and have trouble with practical matters. These individuals may struggle with making decisions or tend to procrastinate when it comes to important tasks. 3
8. Possessive
In relationships, Cancers can be very possessive of their partners, wanting to keep them close and protect them from harm. This possessiveness can also extend to other areas of their life, such as material possessions or even their ideas and beliefs. 4
9. Dependable
Despite their moodiness, Cancers are known for being dependable and loyal friends. They will always be there to provide support and a listening ear when needed. 3
10. Sentimental
Cancers have a sentimental nature and hold onto memories and keepsakes tightly. They can become emotionally attached to people, objects, and even places, making it difficult for them to let go. 3
Best matches for Cancer
With their nurturing and emotional nature, Cancers are most compatible with various signs of the zodiac. These signs are Scorpio, Pisces, and Taurus.
1. Capricorn
Cancer and Capricorn might seem like an odd pairing, but they can complement each other well. Capricorns are practical and grounded, providing stability for the emotional Cancers.
In return, Cancer’s nurturing nature brings warmth and understanding to Capricorn’s serious demeanor. These two signs are responsible and dedicated, making them a reliable and supportive match. 4
Learn more about the Cancer-Capricorn compatibility in this comprehensive article.
2. Taurus
Taurus is another earth sign that shares similar values with Cancer. Their grounded nature helps to balance out the emotional intensity of Cancer, creating a harmonious relationship.
Both signs are also homebodies who enjoy building a comfortable and secure home life together. They have a deep connection and understanding of each other’s needs, making them an ideal match. 4
Learn more about the Taurus-Cancer compatibility in this comprehensive article.
3. Pisces
Pisces is a fellow water sign, making for a deeply emotional and intuitive connection with Cancer. They understand each other’s feelings without needing to explain them, creating an unspoken understanding between the two. 4
These two have a strong spiritual side, allowing them to connect on a deeper level beyond the physical realm. Their shared compassion and sensitivity make them an ideal match that can weather any storm together.
Learn more about the Cancer-Pisces compatibility in this comprehensive article.
4. Virgo
While Cancer and Virgo might seem like an unlikely match, they have a lot in common that can make for a successful relationship. Both signs are dedicated, hard-working, and value stability in their life. 4
Virgos also have a practical nature that can balance out the emotional intensity of Cancers. They bring structure and organization to the relationship, while Cancer provides warmth and understanding.
Learn more about the Cancer-Virgo compatibility in this comprehensive article.
5. Scorpio
Scorpio is a water sign like Cancer, making for an intense and emotional connection. Both signs are highly intuitive and can understand each other’s feelings without needing to verbalize them.
Scorpio might be one of the most mysterious signs of the zodiac, but Cancer sees through their tough exterior and provides them with the emotional support they need. They also share strong family values and a desire for stability, making them a great match in the long run. 4
Learn more about the Cancer-Scorpio compatibility in this comprehensive article.
Worst matches for Cancer
While Cancers have the potential for compatibility with many signs, there are also some that can be challenging matches. These signs are Aries and Libra.
1. Aries
Aries and Cancer are two signs that clash in terms of their approach to life. Aries is known for their impulsive and independent nature, while Cancers value security and stability. 4
These differences can create tension and misunderstandings in a relationship. While they may initially be drawn to each other’s differences, over time, these can become sources of conflict.
Find out how to make the Aries-Cancer compatibility work in this article.
2. Libra
Libras and Cancers can also struggle to find common ground in a relationship. Librans crave balance and harmony, while Cancers are ruled by their emotions, making it challenging for them to compromise. 4
In a relationship, Libra may feel that Cancer is too moody and unpredictable, while Cancer can see Libra as emotionally distant and detached. These differences can make it difficult for the two signs to communicate effectively and form a lasting connection.
Find out how to make the Libra-Cancer compatibility work in this article.
Frequently asked questions about the Cancer compatibility
1. What month is Cancer?
The Cancer zodiac sign falls between June 21 and July 22. If you were born during this time, your sun sign is Cancer. 3
These individuals are known for their nurturing and emotional nature, making them excellent caregivers and friends. However, they can also be moody and possessive at times.
2. What planet rules Cancer?
The moon is the ruling planet of Cancer. This celestial body represents emotions, instincts, and intuition, all traits that are prominent in those born under the sign of Cancer.
Jupiter is also strong in Cancer, influencing their generosity and desire for a stable home life. These planetary influences contribute to the unique traits and tendencies of this zodiac sign. 2
3. Can a Cancer be in a casual relationship?
While Cancers value deep emotional connections, they can also enjoy casual relationships if it aligns with their current needs and desires. However, they may struggle with keeping emotions out of the equation and may end up wanting something more serious.
Cancers need to communicate their intentions clearly with their partner and make sure they are on the same page to avoid any potential hurt feelings. These individuals are known for their empathy and sensitivity, so they may struggle with casual relationships that lack emotional depth. 3
4. What signs are most compatible with Cancer?
Cancers are most compatible with Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, Capricorn, and Virgo. These signs share similar values, creating a strong foundation for a long-term relationship.
They also complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses, creating a balanced and harmonious dynamic in the relationship. Cancer’s nurturing nature and emotional depth are appreciated by these signs, making for a deep connection.
5. Can Cancers have a successful relationship with air signs?
Air signs, such as Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, can be challenging matches for Cancer. These signs value logic and reason over emotions, which can create tension and misunderstandings in a relationship with Cancer.
However, with open communication and a willingness to understand each other’s unique needs, air signs and Cancers can form successful relationships. You may need to work a bit harder to find common ground, but the effort can be worth it in the end. 4
6. Are Cancers clingy in relationships?
Cancers can be emotionally dependent on their partners, which may come across as clingy to some. They crave security and stability in their relationships, and may feel anxious or insecure if those needs are not met.
This clinginess stems from their deep love and fear of losing the ones they care about, rather than a desire to control or possess their partner. Cancers need to communicate their feelings openly with their partner and work on building trust to alleviate any clinginess in the relationship. 3
7. What are the worst matches for Cancer?
The worst matches for Cancer are Aries and Libra. These signs have conflicting personalities and values that can create tension and misunderstandings in a relationship.
As air signs, Aries and Libra prioritize logic and reason over emotions, making it challenging for them to understand Cancer’s emotional nature. As long as all parties are willing to communicate and compromise, these relationships can still work. 4
The definitive guide to astrology: Books for beginners and experts
If you’re interested in astrology, you’ll love these books! These titles take various approaches to the topic, giving you a well-rounded understanding of this ancient practice. From beginner guides to in-depth looks at specific aspects of astrology, these books have something for everyone.
- The Astrology of You and Me: How to Understand and Improve Every Relationship in Your Life
- Queer Cosmos: The Astrology of Queer Identities & Relationships
- Aspects in Astrology: A Guide to Understanding Planetary Relationships in the Horoscope
- The Complete Guide to Astrology: Understanding Yourself, Your Signs, and Your Birth Chart
- The Astrology of Love, Sex & Attraction: Explore Your Passion and Sexuality and Unlock the Secrets of your Heart
Orion, R. (2007). Astrology For Dummies (2nd ed.). For Dummies. ↩︎
Gillett, R. (2017). The Secret Language of Astrology: The Illustrated Key to Unlocking the Secrets of the Stars (Illustrated ed.). Watkins Publishing. ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎
Goldschneider, G., & Chew, C. (2018). The Astrology of You and Me: How to Understand and Improve Every Relationship in Your Life (Reissue ed.). Quirk Books. amazon.com ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎
Clifford, F. C., & Graham, F. (2021). The Astrology of Love, Sex and Attraction: Explore Your Passion and Sexuality and Unlock the Secrets of Your Heart. FLARE. amazon.com ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎
Chanya Chupzda Pransheed
Chanya Chupzda Pransheed is a psychic, astrologer and tarot reader who has been using her gifts for almost 25 years. She has helped people in need of guidance from all walks of …
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