First dates can be weird—you’re both trying to get to know each other without making things too heavy or too awkward. Everyone knows not to go on and on about politics or past relationships, but there are also smaller things people say that mess up the vibe without meaning to.
Here are 14 things that seem fine in the moment but can quietly ruin everything.
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“So How Much Do You Make?”
Asking this right away makes things feel more like a job interview than a date. Even if you’re curious, it sounds like you’re trying to measure their worth with a paycheck. That can shut someone down pretty quickly.
“I Usually Date People Who Are More [……..]”
Comparing your date to others—especially if it sounds like a criticism—never lands well. Even if you’re “just being honest,” it’ll only make them feel like they’re being judged before they’ve even finished their drink.
“I Don’t Believe in Therapy & Stuff Like That”
This can make you sound dismissive, especially if your date values mental health. It’s not just about the topic—it shows how open (or closed off) you are to other people’s experiences.
“You’re Not Really My Type, But I Wanted to Try Something Different”
That might sound adventurous to you, but to them it feels like they’re part of an experiment. No one wants to feel like a backup plan or a curiosity.
“Are You Planning to Lose Weight Or Stay Like This?”
Even if it’s phrased “jokingly,” it’s a huge red flag. That question isn’t just rude—it shows a total lack of awareness. You can’t come back from that one.
“I’m Not Really Looking for Anything Serious—Unless You’re Perfect”
This kind of statement makes it sound like you’re already halfway out the door. It gives the vibe that they’re on some impossible test—and who wants that kind of pressure?
“My Ex Loved This Place Too”
Bringing up your ex in casual comments is like inviting them to the table. Even small things like this can make your date feel like they’re in someone else’s shadow.
“I Don’t Usually Date People Like You”
It might be meant as a compliment, but it often comes out wrong. It can sound like you’re surprised they even got your attention, which feels more insulting than flattering.
“I’m Just Here Because My Friends Made Me Come”
That takes all the energy out of the moment. It makes your date feel like you’d rather be anywhere else, and that you’re just passing the time.
“I Don’t Really Like People That Much”
Some people think being “anti-social” is quirky, but it can come off as cold. A first date is literally about people—so saying this doesn’t help your case.
“I’d Introduce You to My Parents But They’re Super Judgy”
Now your date is already imagining how bad that experience would be. Even if you think you’re being relatable, it just adds a weird tension that didn’t need to be there.
“You Look Different from Your Photos But It’s Fine”
That “but it’s fine” ruins everything. If they look different, keep it to yourself. Pointing it out just makes them self-conscious—even if you didn’t mean it in a mean way.
“I Checked Out Your Socials Before This”
Some light stalking is normal, sure—but announcing it out loud? It’s creepy. Let things come up naturally instead of revealing you already scrolled through their 2018 vacation pics.
“Let’s See If You Can Impress Me”
That sounds more like a dare than a date. It turns the whole thing into a performance instead of a real conversation. No one wants to feel like they’re auditioning.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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