20 Things You Should Never Say to a Man on a First Date
Just as with any first date, when you're getting to know a man, it's important to be mindful of the conversation to foster a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere. Certain comments can be off-putting or insensitive, potentially setting a negative tone for the date. Here’s a list of 20 things you should avoid saying to a man on a first date, along with explanations on why these remarks can be problematic.
1. "Why Are You Still Single?"
Why to Avoid: This question implies that there’s something wrong with being single and can put him on the defensive.
2. "My Ex Used to..."
Why to Avoid: Bringing up past relationships can create an uncomfortable comparison and implies you’re not over your ex.
3. "How Much Money Do You Make?"
Why to Avoid: This question is invasive and can make the date feel more like a job interview.
4. "Are You Going to Let Me Pay?"
Why to Avoid: This can come off as challenging or confrontational about traditional dating roles.
5. "I'm Just Here Because My Friends Wanted Me To Date Again."
Why to Avoid: It suggests you’re not interested in him and that the date is not important to you.
6. "You Don't Look Like Your Profile Picture."
Why to Avoid: This can be interpreted as an accusation of deception or disappointment.
7. "I'm Really Busy with Work Right Now."
Why to Avoid: It gives the impression you’re not willing to make time for a relationship.
8. "You Must Work Out A Lot, Right?"
Why to Avoid: While it can be meant as a compliment, it can also put pressure on his physical appearance.
9. "Do You Really Think That’s True?"
Why to Avoid: Challenging his beliefs or opinions aggressively can make the conversation confrontational.
10. "You’re Nice, But I Usually Date Bad Boys."
Why to Avoid: It implies he's not your preferred type and can be demoralizing.
11. "So, Why Did Your Last Relationship End?"
Why to Avoid: It’s a personal topic and might be too invasive for a first date.
12. "Are You Always This Quiet/Loud?"
Why to Avoid: This can be perceived as a critique of his personality.
13. "I Want to Get Married and Have Kids Soon."
Why to Avoid: This can come off as too forward and put unnecessary pressure on the date.
14. "You’re Not Like Other Guys, Are You?"
Why to Avoid: This generalizes men and can sound like you’ve had only negative experiences.
15. "Can You Fix [Something Technical]?"
Why to Avoid: Assuming he’s handy or tech-savvy based on gender can be stereotypical.
16. "I Don't Usually Pay on Dates."
Why to Avoid: This statement can create awkwardness around the issue of paying.
17. "You Seem Like a Mama's Boy."
Why to Avoid: This is a personal comment and can be interpreted as an insult.
18. "I’m Not Looking for Anything Serious."
Why to Avoid: This can set a casual tone for the relationship that he may not be comfortable with.
19. "Do You Always Wear That Style?"
Why to Avoid: Critiquing his fashion sense can be seen as shallow or disrespectful.
20. "All Men Are the Same."
Why to Avoid: Generalizing about men can be off-putting and suggests a negative bias.
Avoiding these topics can help ensure that the conversation stays positive and that both parties feel respected and valued. A first date is an opportunity to learn about each other's unique qualities and viewpoints, and keeping the conversation open and free from judgments or assumptions is key to a successful first meeting.
