If he compliments something you’re good at, build a little friendly competition. For example, “You seem pretty good at soccer, too. . . But you’ve never gone up against me. ” If he compliments one of your physical qualities, compliment one of his in return, but add a bit of a challenge. “Well you seem pretty strong. But I still bet I’d win in a pushup contest. ” or “You’re cute, too. But I don’t like guys who’re cuter than me. ” Pick something he likes that’s not super heavy or emotionally loaded. Then add, “That’s why we could never date” along with a winky emoji. For instance, “You like quinoa? That’s why we could never date. ” Hint that you know a secret about him. For example, “I think I know somebody that might have a crush on you?!”[2] X Research source
“I’m no photographer but I can picture us together. ” “Are you from Paris? Because I think Eiffel for you just now. ” “Is your dad Liam Neeson? Because I’m pretty taken with you. ” “If I had to choose between you and pizza, I’d choose you. But, please don’t make me do it. ”
If he texts “I wanna see you” or “When can I see you?” reply “Go on my Instagram. ”[5] X Research source If he texts “tell me how you want me,” send something outrageously practical like “Financially responsible with a doctorate in astrophysics and a brand new SUV. ” If he sends a text that says “Thinking of you…” or “I miss you…” respond with something confident like, “Well duh. ”[6] X Research source If he says “say something hot,” respond with “a tea kettle. ” If he says “are you single?” respond “No, I’m plural. ” If he asks for a “dirty pic,” send him a photo of your dirty dishes.
“You think I’m cute? You’re not so bad yourself. ” “I think we’ll get along. I can tell you’re a guy with good taste. ”[9] X Research source If he responds “Why?” say, “Because you like me ;). ” “You’re really handsome, too. Too bad I don’t like guys who are cuter than me. ” “I’m having trouble concentrating today. I can’t stop thinking about how good you looked yesterday. ”[10] X Research source
If he tells you how good you look in a photo on social media, say “Yeah… that was a crazy night!” then add “I’ll tell you about it if you’re lucky. ” If you’re not sure how to reply to a flirty text, use a cliffhanger to buy yourself time, “The wildest thing just happened… I’ll tell you later. ” Use this strategy to casually suggest meeting up, “It’s a long story. I’d have to tell you in person. ”
“Aw thanks! That made me smile. ” “Wow you just made my day. ” “My friends are gonna ask me why I’m blushing right now. ”[14] X Research source If you’re looking to deflect from the compliment, you can change the subject by asking questions and talking about something else. “Thanks! Do you have any fun plans this weekend?”
“I’ve got like 5% battery left, but that won’t stop me from texting you. ” “I’ve been thinking about you all day. ”[16] X Research source “I just watched a scary movie. I need a hug…”[17] X Research source “This dinner would be a lot more fun if you were here. ”[18] X Research source
Send a photo of the restaurant you’re in, a sunset, or whatever’s around you and say “I wish you were here with me. ” Take a photo of a chair or the couch next to you and say, “I saved this seat for you, where are you?”[20] X Research source Send him a photo of the activity you’re doing and say, “Wanna try this with me sometime?”
If he asks what you’re up to, try, “Changing into something hot before I head out with the girls/boys. ” If you respond late, you can say, “Sorry I didn’t see this. I just got out of the shower. ” When he asks what you’re doing in the evening say, “Just got home from work. Guess what I’m thinking about…” You can follow this text up with a goofy, serious, or sexy comment depending on what mood you’re in and how well you know his comfort level.
If he sends too much, too soon: “I feel like I need to get to know you better before we start flirting like this. ” Soften the text by adding a smiley face or “haha. ” If you’re just not interested, send something kind, yet direct: “I think you’re a really great person. I know you’re going to meet someone special, but I just don’t think that we’re a match. ” If you’re uncomfortable, end the conversation or change the subject: “Hey, that makes me a little uncomfortable. Could we talk about something else?”
“I’m a slow texter. Want to call instead?” “I miss seeing your cute face. Are you down to video chat?” “I’ve spent way too much time staring at my screen today. Want to call instead?” “I have something amazing to tell you but it’s going to take way too long to type. Can we video chat?”
“Hey I heard Sonic Brick is in town. Do you want to go see them live?” “Want to come over? I’ve got your favorite things. Mac and cheese, beer, and of course, me!” “I’ve never been to a baseball game before. Would you want to go to one together?” “Have you tried the new coffee shop downtown? I’d love to go. You down?”
