Final answer:
The primary difference between cohabitation and marriage is the higher level of commitment in marriage. Cohabitation is often a 'trial run' before marriage but can have varying levels of commitment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between cohabitation and marriage is that marriage typically involves a greater degree of financial and emotional commitment. Cohabitation, which is when a man and woman live together in a sexual relationship without being married, is often viewed as a 'trial run' for marriage and can be less formal and legally binding compared to marriage. While cohabitation is a growing option among many couples, it does not always end in marriage, and the commitment level may vary significantly from one couple to another.