The fact that we use the American term "dating" to describe a first meeting contributes to the confusion about what this term really means. I have never used the word. It sounds like it comes out of a Hollywood romcom. Steering clear of it allows me to use coffee, meet-up, trip, lunch, bite to eat, drink. That then lowers expectations and the first few meetings should be to see whether two people have much in common, whether there is any affection and to establish wishes and boundaries.