When dating, is it acceptable to end a relationship by doing a 'fadeaway'? How would you feel if someone did this to you?

The Fadeaway is when someone ends a relationship by reducing contact until one has disappeared from the other person’s life.

The article I’ve linked inspired me to this question. I have a hard time deciding what I think about the answer to this question. I’ve been on both sides of the fence and my answer changes depending on whichever side I’m currently sitting.

Does it make a difference:

- Whether the relationship is started in person vs. online, where people can misrepresent themselves and it’s difficult to gauge actual personal chemistry?

- The length of the relationship? Say 1–5 dates, as opposed to an established relationship.

Which is preferable to you: Not saying anything and letting the person figure it out (and having the freedom to pick their own reasons why), or having a break up talk and formalizing your rejection? If you were on the receiving end, which would you prefer (honesty vs. ambiguity)?