A Guide to the Cusps of the Zodiac
Have you ever heard someone describe their zodiac sign as a cusp?
A cusp is the transitional space between two different times, and in astrology, this refers to a select few dates at the end of one sign and the start of the next. When someone says they're a Sagittarius on the cusp of Capricorn or a Gemini on the cusp of Cancer, they usually mean that they feel the influence of more than one sun sign. But is that really the case? We'll break it down for you below.
What Is a Cusp?
A cusp happens in the transition between zodiac signs, with a new sign rising as the other sets. Typically, this period lasts seven days. Those born during this time might report that they relate less strongly to a singular sun sign, instead reflecting aspects of both signs, though astrologers might argue that this isn't exactly true.
Rather, some suggest that these influences are the byproduct of other astrological effects, such as your moon, rising and planetary signs, which may fall under other influences depending on your birth date and time. This might help explain why some people feel that their sign doesn't entirely fit their personality, and why cusp signs seem to align so much better.
The Pisces–Aries Cusp (March 17 to March 23)
Those born on the Pisces-Aries cusp might find themselves torn between worlds, with qualities from both dreamy Pisces and ambitious Aries, and the division between the end and beginning of the astrological year. They might fluctuate back and forth between wanting to relax, simply imagining what could be, and feeling like they need to jump to action in order to make their dreams a reality. They're as creative as they are impulsive. Sometimes, they can channel their energies well, with endless ideas to implement. Other times, they might feel stuck and overwhelmed by too many options. Either way, they tend to always be looking forward, so they can struggle with living in the present moment.
(via Shutterstock)
The Aries-Taurus Cusp (April 16 to April 22)
The Aries-Taurus cusp makes for a hard-working combination indeed. They demonstrate a blend of Aries' unbridled energy with Taurus's ambition, making them into natural-born leaders who are eager to step up to the plate. They're also as stubborn as they come, and they won't get anything get in their way—with the exception of even bigger, better plans making them change course. Combine that fiery temper and that grounded focus, and it's nearly impossible to make them budge.
Also read about: 6 Zodiac Signs That Are Natural-Born Leaders
The Taurus-Gemini Cusp (May 17 to May 23)
Watch out, because the combination of dedicated Taurus and eager-to-please Gemini can make them a little too selfless for their own good. Both signs are happy to serve others, but Taurus's sense of self and love of comfort can be overwhelmed by the Gemini desire for connection. People born under this cusp are also talented communicators and planners while lacking discipline and flexibility. They're beloved and respected, but also need to work hard to find balance and peace in their own lives.
The Gemini-Cancer Cusp (June 17 to June 23)
Despite being next to each other in the zodiac wheel, Geminis and Cancers can sometimes seem like complete opposites, so blending their qualities can have some surprising effects. This cusp can create people who are usually friendly and outgoing, but occasionally become distant without explanation. They're highly romantic and in tune with their emotions, with the right balance of emotional and social intelligence to really get people. They're also strong communicators, but can struggle when it comes to expressing their own wants and needs.
The Cancer-Leo Cusp (July 19 to July 25)
If there's one cusp that absolutely can't resist drama, it's the Cancer-Leo cusp. While Cancers gravitate toward it because they're sensitive, making a commotion because they need affection and reassurance, Leos are happy to create drama because they adore the spotlight. Together, these signs make for someone who's passionate and moody, yet irresistibly charismatic. They're always at the center of everything, feeling equally overwhelmed and invigorated by the experience.
Also read about: The 5 Most Dramatic Signs of the Zodiac
The Leo-Virgo Cusp (Aug. 19 to Aug. 25)
The Leo-Virgo cusp is all about making things happen. With Leo's lofty aspirations and need to be seen and Virgo's perfectionistic and focused passion, it's no wonder that this cusp has a knack for honing their talents to become the very best they can be. They're also ambiverts, needing lots of social contact one day to be their happiest, and needing to recharge their batteries in solitude the next. Further, they make for convincing speakers. They have some powerful ideas, as well as the skills to communicate them with the world.
(via Shutterstock)
The Virgo-Libra Cusp (Sep. 19 to Sep. 25)
With the right focus, the qualities of a Virgo-Libra cusp can be honed to do a world of good. Virgo's hard-working nature and Libra's love for humanity can create some truly altruistic results, so long as their people-pleasing tendencies and need to get things just right don't hamper their ability to act. They're powerfully charming as well as intelligent, attracting all kinds of friends. However, this combination of signs can also be shallow, so they should beware of surrounding themselves with beautiful people without substance.
The Libra-Scorpio Cusp (Oct. 19 to Oct. 25)
The Libra-Scorpio cusp is another curious combination, resulting in people who can be outgoing yet guarded, magnetically and effortlessly attracting people even when they'd rather be left alone. When they do open up, they're both likable and funny. They want to be liked, but at the same time aren't afraid to speak truthfully, and can sometimes be oblivious to the way others see them. Their passionate and romantic natures are also contrasted by the fact that are jealous and don't trust easily.
Also read about: This Is Probably Your Worst Habit, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
The Scorpio-Sagittarius Cusp (Nov. 18 to Nov. 24)
What happens when you bring together the intense intrigue of Scorpio and the adventurous spirit of Sagittarius? You get an intuitive and curious cusp that's passionate and positive, yet hard to define. They demand their freedom, with an independent streak that means they're willing to try anything, but also that they need to define their own paths. The littlest hint of commitment can make them feel tied down and smothered. Further, while their strong emotions can prevent them from pursuing their dreams, their impulsivity can also stop them from considering consequences before they act.
(via Shutterstock)
The Sagittarius-Capricorn Cusp (Dec. 18 to Dec. 24)
When the free spirit of Sagittarius and grounded, hard-working nature of Capricorn come together, you get a surprising amount of balance and reflection. They walk a fine line between optimism and realism, setting goals that are both ambitious and attainable, and they know how to follow their dreams to inspire real-world change with the right focus and dedication. Sags are all about play, and Capricorns do nothing but work. Together, they manage to find a happy medium.
The Capricorn-Aquarius Cusp (Jan. 16 to Jan. 22)
With the Capricorn-Aquarius cusp, the need to respect traditions and the desire to innovative and reinvent can clash quite strongly. They might want to be seen as someone who works hard and does things by the book while having truly idiosyncratic and novel ideas they're not quite ready to share with the world yet. They want to do more, but can feel held back by the constraints of reality, and they don't want to loudly announce their weirdness until they have something to show for it to demonstrate their value.
The Aquarius-Pisces Cusp (Feb. 15 to Feb. 23)
And finally, with a blend of Aquarius and Pisces traits, this cusp is ready to embrace bold, strange and new ideas. They're highly intuitive and open-minded, and as long as something aligns with their ideals and experiences, they're ready to consider pretty much anything. People born on this cusp are kind and giving, but at the same time, they might isolate themselves because they're so sensitive to other people's needs and emotions. They'll make the biggest impact if they can step outside of their comfort zone to share their gifts.
For more on the zodiac, click HERE to learn all about the most empathetic signs.