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Dating advice · Matchfinder archive

10 Conversation Stoppers to Avoid on Dates

Published · 3 min read

From the Matchfinder archive. References to site features and some advice may reflect an earlier version of the service. Read our current safety guidance.

When you’re on a first date with someone and they say something off-putting or wildly inappropriate, you’d probably start looking for an excuse to end the evening early right? Don’t be the one who does this – here are ten things never to say on a first date.

1. “My ex used to tell me that a lot.”

No one particularly wants to hear about your ex, especially your date. It makes you look like you’re carrying around too much baggage.

2. “I was having sex with this girl/guy and you wouldn’t believe what they did!”

This is way too much information for a first date and frankly, bringing up this kind of thing is creepy.

3. “How much do you get paid?”

This is another intensely personal question and it’s one never to ask on a date. You’ll come across as someone who cares more about money than the person sitting across from you.

4. “I’m terrible at first dates.”

Your date will think that you’re regretting your decision to go out with them – or that you have some kind of serious flaw that’s kept you from making relationships work.

5. “I have an anger problem.”

Your date will probably quietly leave, assuring you that they’ll call you soon – since they’re trying to get away from you without making you angry!

6. “You’d be perfect if you just lost a few pounds.”

Nothing can end a date faster than this kind of talk. Don’t do it, no matter what.

7. “I’d love to spend the holidays with your family?”

Slow down! Even meeting your date’s family is still a ways off – there is a time and place to say this, but a first date isn’t it.

8. “I don’t like kids.”

Not everyone wants children, but is this really what you want to lead with on a first date? Chances are that your date at least likes kids, even if they don’t want to have their own at some point.

9. “How could anyone stop at just one or two drinks?”

Your date will immediately see you as someone who can’t be trusted to drink responsibly (in other words, they’ll envision having to carry you home or bundle you into a cab and make their exit).

10. “Gaming is my life.”

This will make you come off as immature and unless your date is a fellow gamer, they’ll probably think that you lack social skills.

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