We’ve all been there – you have a friend who starts acting a little too friendly. They begin showing signs of romantic interest, but you just don’t feel the same way. You value their friendship, but don’t want to lead them on or hurt their feelings. So what’s the best way to nicely friendzone them over text?
Friendzoning someone is tricky. You need to be clear about your intentions, but also sensitive to their feelings. With some tact and care, you can preserve the friendship without any hurt feelings or awkwardness. This comprehensive guide will provide 75 tips to smoothly friendzone a guy over text.
Why Friendzoning is Necessary
Before we get into the specifics, let’s go over why friendzoning is sometimes necessary:
- You don’t owe anyone a romantic relationship. Just because someone is nice to you doesn’t mean you have to date them.
- Leading someone on is worse than direct, but kind rejection. Giving false hope will just prolong the pain.
- Their romantic interest in you doesn’t have to ruin the friendship. With maturity, care, and communication, you can transition to a fulfilling platonic relationship.
- Being “just friends” is not a consolation prize. Friendships are extremely valuable relationships that should be cherished.
The key is approaching the situation with empathy, honesty, and care. With the right mindset and words, you can preserve the friendship by establishing boundaries.
Now let’s get into the 137 tips for smoothly friendzoning someone over text:
1. Be Direct (But Not Cruel)
The best approach is to be straightforward, but also considerate of their feelings. Avoid hurtful language and lay out your position clearly but kindly.
- “You’re such an amazing friend, but I don’t have romantic feelings for you. I hope we can stay close platonically.”
- “I’m flattered, but I don’t feel that spark between us. I care about you as a friend.”
- “You mean so much to me as a friend, and that’s what I’m comfortable with. I hope you understand.”
Being unambiguous will get the message across while also showing you value the friendship.
2. Give Them Space
After friendzoning someone, give them breathing room to process their feelings before jumping back into frequent communication.
- Don’t text them constantly right after the rejection.
- Avoid suggesting you immediately hang out one-on-one.
- Let them initiate contact when they are ready.
Giving space shows sensitivity and allows the romantic feelings to dissipate. Rushing back into constant contact keeps the wound fresh.
3. Do Not Lead Them On
Mixed signals after a rejection are cruel. Do not flirt, get overly personal, or implicitly suggest potential for something more.
- No heart/kiss emojis, teasing, compliments on their appearance, etc.
- Do not confide your deepest emotions and vulnerabilities with them. Keep some distance.
- Avoid physical contact like hugs, playful shoving, hand holding, etc.
Consistency and maturity in your actions are essential. Flirting or getting intimate after friendzoning someone is leading them on.
4. Make Sure They Understand
Some people need the message repeated to really sink in. If they seem confused or keep pursuing you, reiterate your intent.
- “I’m starting to feel like you didn’t understand when I said I just want to be friends. I do not want to date you and that won’t change.”
- “When I said I don’t have romantic feelings for you, I meant it. I’m happy with friendship, but nothing more.”
Don’t accuse them of ignoring your wishes, just calmly re-establish the boundaries. But if they refuse to respect your feelings, you may need to cut contact.
5. Hang Out in Groups
Group hangouts reduce romantic pressure and make your lack of interest clear. Suggest group activities versus one-on-one plans.
- “Some of us are getting dinner Saturday, you should join!”
- “I’m having a game night at my place Friday, want to come? Jen and Alex will be here too.”
Group hangouts take the awkwardness out of contacting them but also avoid fueling their interest.
6. Do Not Rely on Them for Favors
Do not use their lingering romantic feelings to gain favors, emotional support, gifts, etc. Keep your interactions reciprocal.
- Don’t ask them for rides, help moving, or other personal favors.
- Don’t treat them as your therapist to vent your problems and seek emotional comfort.
- No flirty texts when you’re bored and want attention.
Maintaining healthy boundaries preserves the friendship.
7. Let Them Date Other People
Show you support them moving on by encouraging them to accept dates and pursue other romantic interests.
- “You should ask Jen out, I think you’d really hit it off!”
- “Have you messaged that cute bartender back yet? Go for it!”
- “Online dating is tough but can really be worth it. I hope you find someone amazing.”
Being their cheerleader demonstrates the friendship is your priority.
8. Do Not Get Jealous
You relinquished any claim to exclusivity. Show your support if they start dating other people.
- No guilt-tripping or shaming them for moving on.
- Don’t make snide remarks about their new significant other.
- Don’t try to sabotage their new relationships.
Maturity and respect are required. Getting territorial over an unrequited crush is not okay.
9. Compliment Their Friendship
When you turn someone down romantically, reassure them how much you value their friendship.
- “I’m so glad I can always count on you as a friend.”
- “Your friendship means the world to me.”
- “I don’t know what I’d do without our late night talks and movie marathons.”
This shows rejection doesn’t lessen their importance in your life.
Subtle Ways to Send the Message
Sometimes directly friendzoning someone feels awkward. Other approaches can indirectly make your lack of romantic interest clear.
10. Take Longer to Respond to Texts
When you like someone, you usually text back right away. So taking longer to respond signals disinterest.
- Don’t reply instantly to their “Hey beautiful” opener. Wait a few hours.
- Let their “We should hang soon” message sit overnight before responding.
Delayed responses convey you aren’t eagerly waiting by the phone for their texts. But don’t ghost them completely.
11. Decline Invitations to Meet Their Friends/Family
Meeting friends and family is a relationship milestone. Declining such invitations puts up a boundary.
- “Thanks but I’m not up for meeting your college buddies this weekend.”
- “I’d rather not do dinner with your parents, that just feels too couple-y right now.”
Politely avoiding that level of involvement in their life clearly signals disinterest.
12. Stop dressing up
Putting extra effort into your appearance for someone implies you want their admiration. Dressing down establishes a casual tone.
- Wear your everyday jeans and t-shirt, not a new dress.
- Don’t get dolled up with makeup for your hangouts.
Dressing to impress sends the wrong message. Keep it simple and comfortable.
13. Mention Other Romantic Prospects
Talking about romantic interests and dates with other people gets the point across fast.
- “Steve asked me out this weekend, I’m so excited!”
- “I can’t stop thinking about Laura recently, I really want to ask her out.”
This positions you strictly in the friend category by making your external romantic interests clear.
14. Compare Them to Family Members
Nothing says platonic like comparing someone to a family member. Use comparisons jokingly but truthfully.
- “You’re like the brother I never had.”
- “You give the same vibe as my cousin Jake, such a great friend.”
Frame them as a sibling figure to remove any sexual context from your relationship.
More Direct Friendzone Approaches
If subtle hints don’t work, don’t hesitate to be very explicit in emphasizing just a platonic interest.
15. The “Let’s Just Be Friends” Text
Sometimes you just have to say it outright. Keep it simple but unambiguous.
- “You’re really great, but let’s just be friends.”
- “I don’t want to jeopardize our friendship by dating. Let’s just stay friends.”
No room for misinterpretation here. But don’t make it sound like friendship is in any way a demotion.
16. Explain Why You Don’t Want to Date Them
Providing reasons eases the ego hit of rejection and makes it less personal. It also removes their sense of hope.
- “You’re an amazing friend, but I don’t feel that special romantic spark with you.”
- “You’re like family to me, so dating would just feel weird!”
Giving causes prevents them from thinking they can win you over.
17. The “You’re Like a Sibling” Text
Another straightforward friendzone tactic is emphasizing you view them as a sibling figure.
- “I love you like the the brother/sister I never had!”
- “We have such a sibling vibe, I can’t imagine it any other way.”
This frames your relationship clearly in family terms, removing any sexual context.
18. The “I’m Not Ready for a Relationship” Text
Suggesting you aren’t ready for commitment in general, not just with them, softens the blow.
- “I’m just not looking for a relationship with anyone right now.”
- “I need to focus on myself/my career/family right now. I can’t handle dating.”
Couching it as your own inner work avoids wounding their ego over feeling personally rejected.
19. The “Let’s Not Jeopardize Our Friendship” Text
Framing dating as too big a risk for your friendship establishes priorities.
- “You mean the world to me as a friend. I don’t want to jeopardize that.”
- “Our friendship is too important to me to gamble with.”
This nobly frames rejection as protecting the invaluable friendship you share.
Friendzoning a Girl Over Text
The same principles apply when you need to friendzone a female interested in you. You need to be sensitive yet crystal clear.
20. Directly Say You Only Want Friendship
Don’t beat around the bush. Make your purely platonic interest unambiguous.
- “I really value our friendship but don’t see it going in a romantic direction.”
- “You’re so fun to hang out with, but I don’t have feelings for you as more than a friend.”
Being gentle yet firm avoids leading them on. Do not use cruel phrasing.
21. Note Your Lack of Physical Attraction
Citing lack of physical chemistry clearly conveys you feel no spark of passion. But don’t insult their appearance.
- “I think you’re really cool, I just don’t feel that physical spark between us.”
- “You’re beautiful, I’m just not feeling that heart-pounding chemistry.”
Lack of mutual sexual desire prevents false hope.
22. Frame Them as a Sibling
Familial comparisons instantly flip the friendship switch into platonic territory.
- “Talking to you is like chatting with a sister, it just feels right.”
- “Being around you gives me total sibling vibes.”
This quickly establishes you view them as family, not a romantic partner.
23. Say You’re Focused on Yourself
Like with men, saying you aren’t ready for commitment makes it about your own inner work.
- “I’m not in the headspace for dating right now, I need to focus on me.”
- “With everything going on in my life, I can’t handle a relationship.”
This prevents them from taking rejection personally. But don’t give false hope you may date them later.
24. Emphasize Value of the Friendship
After turning down their advances, highlight how important the friendship remains.
- “I don’t want to risk our amazing friendship. It means so much to me.”
- “You’re such a cherished friend. That’s what I want to maintain.”
This shows rejection doesn’t diminish their value in your life.
25. Suggest Friends You Could Set Them Up With
Redirect their romantic interest by offering to set them up with someone new.
- “You know who I think you’d really hit it off with? My friend Lisa!”
- “Have you met my coworker Chris? You guys have so much in common.”
Positioning yourself as a wingman/wingwoman prevents sending mixed signals.
Responding to Unwanted Flirting
Unrequited flirting from a friend can be annoying. Shut it down kindly but firmly.
26. Note You’re Uncomfortable with Flirting
Don’t silently tolerate unwanted flirtation. Directly address it.
- “I know you’re just joking, but the flirty comments make me a little uncomfortable.”
- “Let’s keep things platonic moving forward.”
Speaking up stops the behavior and prevents misread signals. But stay calm and mature.
27. Remind Them You’re Just Friends
Reframing your relationship as strictly platonic makes flirting inappropriate.
- “Remember, we’re just friends!”
- “I love our friendship, but you know this can’t go further than that.”
Couching the message as a “reminder” is gentler than an accusation.
28. Ask Them to Stop Complimenting Your Appearance
Undesired compliments on your looks understandably feel objectifying. Shut it down.
- “I’d appreciate it if you’d stop commenting on my body.”
- “Those remarks about my looks make me really uncomfortable.”
Do not tolerate treatment that feels degrading. But stay composed.
29. Redirect the Conversation
Deflect flirtation by immediately changing the subject.
- Them: “If I was your boyfriend, I’d never let you go.” You: “Oh hey, did you watch the new Game of Thrones episode?”
Redirecting to a neutral topic demonstrates you won’t engage with flirtation. But don’t give them the silent treatment.
30. Use Humor
A humorous response can defuse awkwardness while also establishing boundaries.
- Them: “If you were my girlfriend…” You: “Sounds like somebody’s got a crush!”
- Them: “You’re so sexy.” You: “Down boy!”
Laughter builds connection. But avoid sarcasm, mockery or passive aggression.
Handling Unwanted Gifts
Gifts can powerfully convey interest. Redirect that energy in a positive direction.
31. Note You Prefer Quality Time
Suggest you prefer shared experiences and conversations over material gifts.
- “You’re so thoughtful, but you know I prefer making memories together over random gifts.”
This frames a gift as unnecessary to make you happy. Focus on the friendship.
32. Recommend They Return the Gift
If they spent a lot of money on something overly luxurious, recommend they return it.
- “Wow, this necklace looks expensive! You should really return it and spend the money on yourself.”
Position the gift as impractical, not just unwanted. This prevents material offerings in the future without awkwardness.
33. Propose Donating Unwanted Gifts
If returning a gift seems complicated, propose donating the item.
- “Since I’d never actually wear this, why don’t we donate it to Goodwill so someone else can enjoy it?”
This sidesteps awkwardness while also building friendship through doing good together.
34. Express Appreciation, But Maintain Boundaries
Thank them for thinking of you, but firmly give the gift back and say such offerings make you uncomfortable.
- “Thanks, I’m flattered you got me perfume, but those types of gifts aren’t necessary for us to be friends.”
Graciously refusing gifts prevents misunderstandings while noting unwanted courting makes you uncomfortable.
Responding to Love Confessions
Declaring love is intense and cannot be ignored. Let them down easy but leave no room for misinterpretation.
35. Thank Them for Their Honesty
Show you appreciate their boldness and vulnerability, even if feelings aren’t mutual.
- “I’m flattered you have feelings for me. Thank you for having the courage to be open.”
This validates their emotional risk-taking without reciprocating romantic interest.
36. Do Not Say “I Love You” Back
Do not get swept up in the moment and echo their love confession if you don’t mean it. This gives false hope.
- “You’re so important to me as a friend.”
Clarify the nature of your connection. Do not leave room for misinterpretation.
37. Explain Why It Wouldn’t Work
Provide reasons a romantic relationship would never thrive between you two.
- “I just don’t think we’re very compatible in a romantic context.”
- “We want really different things out of life that would never mesh in a relationship.”
Giving irreconcilable differences rescues them from thinking they can win you over.
38. Note You Don’t Feel the Same Way
A simple but clear response avoids agonizing over softening the blow.
- “I care about you as a friend, but don’t have romantic feelings for you.”
- “I’m sorry, but I don’t feel the same way.”
Do not insult or demean them. But refuse to mince words about your stance.
39. Emphasize Wanting to Remain Friends
Cushion the rejection by emphasizing you still care deeply as a friend.
- “I don’t feel the same way romantically, but I still want to be friends.”
- “My feelings aren’t the same, but I still want you in my life as a friend.”
Making clear the friendship remains intact softens the sting.
40. Give It Time Before Contacting Them Again
A love confession shakes things up. Give them space before contacting them again.
- Don’t text the next day like nothing happened. Give it a week or two.
- Wait for them to reach out to you first after they’ve had time to process.
Rushing back into frequent communication keeps the wound raw.
Responding to Requests for a Date
When friendzoned friends ask for an explicit date, reject the offer tactfully.
41. Say You’d Prefer to Hang Out as Friends
Decline the date invitation but open to platonic hangouts instead.
- “I’d prefer if we just hung out as friends.”
- “Why don’t we do something fun with the whole gang instead of a one-on-one date?”
This maintains the friendship while redirecting away from romantic escalation.
42. Use a White Lie About Being Too Busy
If declining directly feels awkward, cite being busy as a softer let down. But don’t give a specific reschedule date.
- “Ah I’m jam packed this week, let’s just play it by ear.”
Keeping it vague prevents pinning you down. But don’t lie about being busy if they want to make concrete plans soon after.
43. Note You Don’t Want to Lead Them On
Explain going on a date would falsely suggest reciprocated romantic interest.
- “I don’t think that’s a good idea since I don’t want to lead you on.”
Frame it as concern for their feelings, not rejection of them as a person.
44. Highlight It Wouldn’t Be Fair to Them
Emphasize they deserve someone who truly reciprocates their romantic feelings.
- “I don’t think it would be fair to you to go on a date when my feelings aren’t the same.”
Position yourself nobly as preventing their emotional pain, not inflicting it.
45. Recommend Online Dating Instead
Redirect their romantic interest toward more fruitful outlets like dating apps.
- “Why don’t you try one of those new dating apps? I bet you’d meet someone amazing.”
Point them in a direction where their seeking romance has better odds of being reciprocated.
Responding to Requests to Cuddle
Non-consensual physical contact is unacceptable. But you can decline cuddling without shaming.
46. Note You’re Uncomfortable with Physical Contact
Explain you have boundaries against close physical contact outside romantic relationships.
- “Cuddling would actually make me pretty uncomfortable since we’re just friends.”
Don’t accuse them of being “creepy” as that may breed resentment. Just calmly establish your boundaries.
47. Recommend Hugs Instead
Suggest a compromise of a brief, friendly hug if you’re comfortable with that.
- “Maybe just a quick hug instead? I’m not really into extended cuddling with friends.”
Offer an alternative that respects both your comfort levels. Only propose this if you genuinely are okay with hugs from them.
48. Kindly Reiterate Your Friendship
Gently remind them of the platonic nature of your relationship.
- “You’re my friend, and friends don’t usually cuddle. Let’s watch the movie without any cuddling.”
Don’t shame them for asking. Just calmly re-establish the friendship context.
49. Refocus the Interaction
Deflect by suggesting another bonding activity entirely.
- “Actually, let’s play Monopoly instead. No cuddling necessary!”
Pivoting to something new and fun maintains the friendship without uncomfortable pressure.
50. Use Humor
With close friends, you can inject humor to brush off requests for excessive physical intimacy.
- Them: “Come cuddle with me.” You: “Woah buddy, buy a girl dinner first!”
Laughter defuses discomfort. But assess they have the maturity not to take offense first.
Discouraging Pet Names
Unwanted pet names cross a line. But bear in mind intention versus impact when responding.
51. Ignore the Pet Name Entirely
If they call you “babe” or “sexy,” pretend you didn’t hear it and continue the conversation normally.
- Them: “Could you pass that menu over here babe?” You: “Here’s the menu. What are you thinking of ordering?”
Not acknowledging the name shows you won’t respond to flirtation. But don’t give them the silent treatment altogether.
52. Note That Pet Names Make You Uncomfortable
Directly but calmly explain terms like “baby” or “sweetie” bother you.
- “It makes me a little uncomfortable when you call me baby. Could you not use pet names?”
If they are mortified and apologize, assume positive intent going forward. But if the behavior continues, reconsider the friendship.
53. Use Humor
With close friends, gently poke fun at the pet name to establish it as off limits.
- Them: “What’s up, sweet cheeks?” You: “Sweet cheeks? What am I, a donut?”
Playful banter can ease tension. But assess they won’t take offense first. Avoid sarcasm or malice.
54. Give Them a Silly Pet Name Back
Use humor and exaggerated pet names in return to get the point across.
- Them: “Looking good, hot mama!” You: “Thanks, schmoopy bear!”
An over-the-top pet name back highlights the inappropriateness. But gauge their sense of humor first.
Declining Invitations to Their Place
Hanging at their place can imply openness to intimacy. Politely staying in public spaces is safest.
55. Suggest Going to a Cafe or Park Instead
Propose an alternative public place you’d be more comfortable.
- “Could we go to a cafe instead of your place? I love that new spot on 5th.”
Present it casually as an idea, not rejection of their offer. Fresh venues make it seem less like avoidance.
56. Say You’re Not Comfortable Going Over
Honesty doesn’t have to be confrontational. Simply state going to their home would make you uneasy.
- “I’d prefer not to come over to your place – I’m just not really comfortable with that.”
Being straightforward sets clear expectations. But avoid an accusatory tone.
57. Express You Prefer to Socialize in Public
Broadly share you are private about your home life and prefer socializing out and about.
- “I actually like to hang out in public places. I’m pretty private when it comes to my home.”
Keep it about you, not them. Frame it as your general preference.
58. Make Up An Excuse About Other Plans
White lies can avoid tension if declining directly feels too awkward. But don’t offer a specific rescheduled date.
- “Shoot, I totally forgot I have to run errands tonight. Raincheck?”
Vaguely citing other commitments is gentler than outright rejection. But don’t lie about fake plans as your go-to avoidance method.
59. Invite Other Friends
Suggest making it a group hangout instead of one-on-one time.
- “Any chance we could invite Ashley and Chris too? Could be fun!”
Expanding to group plans sidesteps uncomfortable intimacy. But gauge their reaction first.
Discouraging Flirty Texts
Flirty texts test the water for romance. Shut them down while keeping it friendly.
60. Point Out You’re Just Friends
Unambiguously but kindly reiterate you are strictly platonic friends.
- “You know I care about you as just a friend, right?”
Clarifying your stance avoids sending mixed signals. But stay calm and avoid shaming.
61. Note You Prefer To Text About Shared Interests
Redirect the subject by highlighting you prefer discussing shared hobbies, interests, schoolwork, etc.
- “I really like texting about our favorite podcasts, not flirty stuff. What did you think of the latest episode?”
Shift to preferred subjects. But don’t give them the cold shoulder.
62. Use Humor
Show you acknowledge but dismiss the flirtation through gentle joking.
- Them: “If I was your man, I’d make you feel like a princess.” You: “Except you’re not, so keep dreaming Sir Lancelot!”
Lightheartedness defuses discomfort. But assess their ability to take a jest before teasing.
63. Be Honest About Your Feelings
Candidly share the flirty vibe makes you uncomfortable. But skip accusations.
- “The flirty texts are a little uncomfortable since I see you as just a friend.”
Honesty strengthens trust and prevents mixed signals. Just maintain a calm, thoughtful tone.
64. Do Not Flirt Back
Unreciprocated flirtation may be an attempt to kindle a spark. Never fan the flames if your feelings aren’t mutual.
- No heart eye or kissy face emojis.
- No teasing texts suggesting potential physical intimacy.
Flirting back is misleading and manipulative. Shut it down caringly but decidedly.
Social Media Boundaries
Unrequited love can breed jealousy. Keep social media interactions strictly platonic.
65. Don’t Post Coupley Photos
Pics appearing romantically intimate give the wrong impression. Vet shots carefully before posting.
- No cuddling on the couch or beach sunset strolls.
Keep things unambiguous to avoid wounding their feelings or having to passive aggressively untag yourself.
66. Omit Flirty Comments
Even if meant jokingly, flirty remarks breed hope and jealousy. Keep comments free ofheart eyes or mentions of their looks.
- Instead of “Lookin’ good!” comment on cool vacations, achievements, pets, etc.
Appropriate subject matter shows you want normal social media friendship.
67. Do Not Try Making Them Jealous
Posting suggestively with other suitors will backfire. Never weaponize your platform.
- No bragging about dates or tagging random hotties to irk them.
Attempts to induce jealousy through social media antics breeds resentment, not desire. Take the high road.
68. Limit Tagging Each Other
Constant back and forth tagging keeps the embers of romance burning. Dial it back.
- Don’t tag them in every meme.
- If they tag you in a love song, don’t repost.
Less digital interaction controls undesired attachment. But don’t go cold turkey or unfriend completely.
69. Keep Chat Habits Casual
Limit private messages to platonic friendly subjects, not flirting or intense emotional dumping.
- Share funny videos, interesting articles, weekend plans with other friends, etc.
Light chitchat prevents intimacy breeding intensified feelings.
Responding to Unwanted Gifts
Gifts signify affection. Avoid fueling misconceptions by refusing them graciously.
70. Thank Them for the Thought
Show you appreciate the gesture, even if refusing the gift to prevent misunderstanding.
- “That’s so thoughtful of you! But I can’t accept such an expensive gift.”
Gratitude acknowledges they were trying to do something kind without encouraging the courtship.
71. Note That Gifts Make You Uncomfortable
Don’t silently tolerate gift-giving signaling romance. Politely speak up.
- “You’re so sweet, but gifts make me uncomfortable since we’re just friends.”
Calm, direct communication prevents anxiety on both sides over gift power-dynamics.
72. Redirect Their Effort
Recommend channeling their generosity toward charity instead of you.
- “I know your heart’s in the right place, but we’d both feel better if you donated this money to a good cause instead.”
Reframing gifts as aid prevents the awkwardness of complete rejection while halting romantic signals.
73. Return or Repurpose the Gift
Send the item back to them or quietly pass it along to someone who needs it more.
- Regift the jewelry or donation box the clothes so they understand the message.
Returning gifts demonstrates you will not indulge romantic advances. But avoid confrontation or public shaming.
De-escalating Things if They Get Weird
Unrequited feelings breed irrational behavior. Calmly restore order.
74. Take Space
Say you need a breather if they’re escalating contact, gifts or public displays after rejection.
- “I think we both need a little space after the intensity recently. Let’s continue this conversation in a few weeks.”
Don’t cut them off forever. Just gradually rebuild a casual friendship after emotions cool.
75. Involve a Mutual Friend
If they repeatedly violate boundaries, recruit a respected mutual friend to mediate.
- “James, could you talk to Sandra? She doesn’t seem to hear me when I say I just want to be friends.”
An impartial mediator models how to appropriately interact given the platonic nature of the relationship.
Key Takeaways
- Be kind, calm and direct. Do not shame them just for having feelings.
- Do not lead them on with physical intimacy, gifts, flirtation, etc.
- Give them space at first. Let them dictate the pace when reviving the platonic friendship.
- Make sure they understand it will never turn romantic. State it explicitly if needed.
- Reframe friendship as the priority, not a consolation prize.
- Respond to uncomfortable behaviors and conversations maturely.
- Use humor when appropriate, but avoid sarcasm or passive aggression.
Prioritize openness, patience and empathy. With care, you can preserve the friendship without the romance.
FAQs
How do you reject a guy nicely over text?
Be honest but kind. Thank them for sharing their feelings, compliment their friendship, but explain you only see them as a friend. Give space after rejecting them.
What to say to a friend you don’t like romantically?
Be direct yet thoughtful. Say something like “You mean so much to me as a friend, but I don’t have romantic feelings for you. I hope we can stay close without any awkwardness.”
How do you tell a friend you love them like a sibling?
Say something like “I love you like the brother/sister I never had. We just gel so perfectly in a family way!” Framing it positively avoids seeming like you find them repulsive.
How do you avoid leading a friend on over text?
Do not flirt, use pet names, get overly personal, or text constantly/right away every time. Politely decline gifts or invitations that imply dates. Redirect flirty conversations back to platonic topics.
What to say to someone who likes you but you want to be just friends?
Tactfully explain you only see them as a friend and are not interested romantically. Compliment their friendship but note you don’t feel a spark. Recommend focusing that energy on finding someone more compatible for a relationship.
