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How to tell someone you like them is quite challenging when your crush makes you go weak in the knees. Acknowledging your feelings can make you feel nervous or give you sleepless nights. You may also fear losing your friendship or hurting the other person’s feelings, making things awkward between you two. But imagine if things turn out positive, it can lead to beautiful new beginnings.
Discover effective and creative methods to express your feelings and communicate your attraction confidently in this post. We have collected some of the most effective ways to tell someone you like them based on widely accepted practices. Read on to find out when would be the best time to ask your crush out and how to tell someone you like them with confidence.
Key Pointers
- You may think for some time about why you like someone before conveying your interest to the person.
- Show your excitement to see them, and do not hide it. You may convey that you’re excited to see and invite them to join you at the event.
- You may make a public announcement of love after communicating with each other to avoid putting pressure on your crush.
When To Tell Someone You Like Them?
Timing plays a crucial role when you are about to confess your feelings. In fact, it is one of the most important factors that determine whether a confession goes successfully. According to an AI-based study on 1,000 young individuals in China, you should not wait too long before telling someone you like them. The researchers from Shantou University conclude, “In our research, we have discovered that to improve the chances of a positive outcome in love confessions, individuals should avoid artificially prolonging the pursuit, trust their instincts, increase the frequency of hanging out and engage in activities aligned with the target’s interests, pay attention to personal appearance and grooming, prefer face-to-face confession methods, and consider the target’s attitude… (1).”
So, when do you know it’s the right time to confess? Here are a few tips.
1. Figure out why you like the person
If you think you like a person, consider why you like them and persuade yourself that your feelings are genuine. Before you tell them about your feelings, you must be clear. This way, you might enter a relationship with them.
2. Try to find if they are attracted to you
When a person likes you, they give out some signs of attraction. These signs may be subtle and easy to miss. Look out for such cues so that you know the person is interested in knowing about your feelings.
3. Find the right time
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Find a time when your crush isn’t stressed or in a rush. A day before exams or a big presentation isn’t the best time to discuss your feelings with them. Take them to a place where you can be alone with them and have a private conversation that allows you to profess your feelings honestly.
50 Creative Ways To Tell Someone You Like Them
Many people find it difficult to talk about their feelings. If you like someone, you might be scared of ruining your relationship with them if you tell them what you feel. Here is how you can express your feelings. Here are some tips on how to confess to your crush.
1. Give them hints
When you are attracted to a person, your body language goes through various changes without knowing it. For example, you lean towards the person while talking to them, you also tend to touch your face or hair or constantly smile as you admire their presence. You can also compliment their smile or their appearance during a casual conversation.
2. Confess sooner than later
If you have already been crushing on the person for a while, the sooner you let them know, the better. If they do not reciprocate your feelings, you have more time to heal. If they do, you can be in a relationship.
Martha Sta. Barbara, a blogger, shares her experience of how her boyfriend confessed to her. She says, “When my BF and I started dating, he said straight to my face on probably our third or fourth date that he liked me. I was 19 then so I was weirded out and like: “Wow, that was quick. No physical and mind games or courtship whatsoever? Just that?” I thought it was boring, but 8 years later, I realized that good thing he was upfront about it as it saved me from a lot of emotional hassle aka heartaches (i).”
Point to consider3. Show your excitement
If you like someone and are excited to see them, do not hide it from them. For example, if they enter a room where you are already talking with someone else, break the conversation for a minute, welcome your crush, and adulate them with attention and interest. Invite them to join you and pull out a chair for them. Invite them to join you. Your excitement will soon be transmitted to them.
4. Smile and look at them
What could give you more happiness than looking at your crush’s face and smiling at them? While you can be discreet about it, you could give a hint that you are looking at them a few times a day. But don’t be creepy about it. For instance, if you are eating in a group, make eye contact and smile at your crush when they make a joke or share an anecdote.
5. Share confidently
Confidence is a much-admired quality in a person. When you state your feelings confidently to your crush, there are chances they will consider your proposal even if they do not have the same feelings for you at the moment. Even if you do not confess, confidently compliment them, hinting at how much you like them. For example, say something like, “I’ve been meaning to say this for a while now, but I really admire your spontaneity.”
6. Don’t make a huge announcement
All those public announcements of love you see on TV are made when both parties have already communicated about marriage or relationship at some point. It is important to empathize with the person you are proposing to and consider what they would be comfortable with. Proposing in public puts a huge amount of pressure on the person you are proposing. Instead, pick a private place, like the quiet corner of a cafe, to make your feelings known.
7. Talk in a casual tone when asking to meet
When you finally plan to confess your feelings to your crush, don’t make a big deal out of it when asking for some time. Just ask them confidently and casually for their time, like you do to a friend when you want to talk about something. You can just be like. “Can you spare me some time after the lecture? I have something to talk about.” Here are some things to say to your crush.
8. Use simple language
Unless you are a literature expert, do not opt for flowery language. You don’t need to recite Shakespeare’s sonnets or quote movie dialogues to state your feelings. Keep your proposal as simple as possible. You don’t have to be eloquent. Just be honest. Say something along the lines of, “I like you. Spending time with you makes me happy.”
9. Start the conversation in a friendly tone
Before you confess your feelings, start your conversation on a lighter note with a casual, friendly greeting to make them comfortable. The best way to do this is to start with a lighthearted compliment when discussing something random. Say something like, “You’ve always had the best taste in movies!”
10. Be their friend
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If you idolize your crush and not your friend yet, you can reach out for friendship. Support them in their endeavors and try to get close to them. If your friendship transitions to a relationship, it would be a bonus. If you are wondering about how to tell your crush you like them, being friends with them first is always a good idea. For instance, if they need help with a project, give them a hand. Or, you can start hanging out with them more in a place you’re mutually interested in, like a book club.
11. Ask questions
Asking questions about their day, lives, goals, families, and other things will show your genuine interest in knowing about them. However, ensure not to ask any questions that will make them uncomfortable. You can ask them casual questions, like “What is your dream travel destination?” or “What inspired you to pursue your career?”
12. Reminisce your previous conversations with them
Whether talking over the phone or when you meet them personally, following up on their previous discussion will convey your attentiveness and genuine interest in them. For instance, if they mentioned wanting to try out Japanese food, say something like, “Hey, I remembered you talking about Japanese food the other day. Guess what, there’s a new place nearby. I think you’d enjoy it.”
13. Make them feel comfortable
Going to your crush straightaway and telling them, ‘I like you.’ can make them feel weird even if you’re friends. The goal is to make them feel comfortable around you with your support, humor, jokes, and friendly talk while being obvious about your likeness toward them. So, before you confess, make them feel relaxed by cracking a joke about something you experienced together.
14. Introduce them to your circle
This is one of the best ways to show someone your interest in them without saying. You may invite them to your friends’ gatherings to hang out. You can also invite them to your family’s fun celebrations. But make sure they feel comfortable being there. For example, if your crush likes board games, tell them, “Hey, my friends and I are having a game night this weekend. You should join — it’ll be fun!”
15. Get into their circle
Getting friends with their friends will help create more opportunities for you to spend time with your crush and know about them better. However, refrain from prying about their life. Keep it lighthearted and fun, just so you can be around your crush. For instance, join a hiking trip their friend group organizes.
16. Give them special treatment
Whether you’re in college, at workspace, gatherings, or lunch, paying extra attention to them will make them feel special and convey your feelings. You can save a seat for them in a busy lecture hall or get them their favorite coffee as a treat. This will also help to develop feelings for you in them naturally.
17. Remember their important days
Knowing your crush’s significant days, like birthdays, promotions, and even their exam days if they are studying, could make them feel special. This will help them feel appreciation towards you. For instance, if they have a big exam coming up, wish them luck the day before. You could also celebrate their achievements with a congratulatory message.
18. Flirt with them
When you are alone with your crush, take your chance to compliment and woo them with your charm. However, keep it light and casual. For instance, say something genuine yet flirty, like, “You look especially nice today — what’s the occasion?” Also, don’t flirt with them when you are surrounded by others. It could make your crush feel awkward, and they might try to move away from you.
19. Do it in person
The best way to propose to your crush is to talk to them in person. For instance, after hanging out with them, pull them aside and say, “There’s something I’ve been meaning to say for a long time. I really like you.” However, if you are too nervous, call them and talk with them privately.
20. Maintain eye contact when confessing
Proper eye contact when confessing will help them see your honesty and genuineness. Therefore, relax your body and be confident when confessing your love to them. Smile gently at them. However, don’t stand too close to them or look at the floor or close your eyes, as these reactions may make your crush feel that you’re too eager.
21. Do not overwhelm them when confessing
When you set out to confess to them, do not overexpress yourself or show excessive emotion, as it can make them feel awkward and put pressure on them. Say something genuine, “I’ve wanted to say something to you for a while. I think you’re amazing, and I like you.”
Quick tip22. If nervous, text
Texting is not the best way to propose to someone. But if you are extremely nervous about the outcome, text them about your feelings. For instance, send something like, “Hey, I’ve been meaning to tell you that I like you. I thought saying it in text would make it easier for both of us.” This also gives your crush a chance to make up their mind without any pressure. Here are a few tips on how to tell your crush you like them over text.
23. Write a cute note
This old yet classic confession method is still popular and effective. It will not only allow you to express your feelings in your words if you’re too nervous to speak to them, but it will also show your genuine efforts to your crush. You can either be creative with your words or state your feelings in a note or letter. Write something along the lines of, “Your smile is lovely, and you make my day brighter.”
24. Give a slight touch
The power of touch is often underestimated. When you like someone, let them know your feelings by touching them casually on their arm or shoulder to indicate your interest. You can lightly tap them when laughing at a joke or to emphasize a point. You could give a high-five as well. The way you carry yourself when you touch or seduce them is important—keep it light and soft.
25. Dress well
Knowing that you look good increases your confidence. Select a well-fitting outfit that looks good on you and wear it on the day of the proposal.
26. Take them out on a date
Remember that there is no need for you to pour your feelings out as a romantic declaration at the beginning. Take them out on a coffee date instead. It is less scary, and your crush might get an idea of your feelings.
27. Be observant
When you go out with your crush, be observant of your crush; listen to them attentively and show genuine interest in their conversation. Be active with your response and actions toward them. You can also observe their favorite things. For instance, pay attention to their coffee order and surprise them with it during a study session. Or, take note of the color they wear the most and give them a small stationery item, like a pen, in the same color.
28. Be available for them
Make sure to be available for your crush if they need you if you really want to show your interest in them. For example, if they need someone to listen to their problems, be a listening ear. If they need help with an assignment, lend a helping hand. This will help you be a reliable person for them to look for when they need someone.
29. Text them to ask if they reached home
Asking if they reached home safely will make them cared for and valued. Also, it will give you a reason to get your conversation ongoing even after the meet-up. Send them a short and sweet text like, “Hey, did you get home safe? Just checking in!”
30. Talk to each other over the phone
Talking on the phone with your crush can give you immense happiness. Call them now and then, first about something casual, and then move on to more personal stuff. For instance, call them to tell them about a funny incident that reminded you of them, and then, gradually move on to a deeper conversation.
31. Text each other more often
Nowadays, most people prefer texting to talking on the phone. You could send your crush a good morning and good night message occasionally. Send something simple like, “Good morning! I hope you have a fantastic day ahead.” If they reply, take the texting game to the next level.
32. State facts
If you are friends with your crush, you might want to consider what a rejection may do to your friendship. It’s important to communicate that you hold your friendship in high esteem and wouldn’t want it to suffer because of this proposal. Banker Manoj Radhakrishna writes about his experience confessing his feelings to a neighbor and close friend in his blog. He says, “One day, I decided to take a chance and tell her how I felt. I remember being so nervous and scared, but I knew that I had to do it. To my surprise, she didn’t feel the same way about me, and she saw me as a friend. She told me that she wasn’t ready for love, but that our friendship was special to her.
“I was heartbroken, and I remember feeling like I had lost something special. However, looking back on it now, I feel grateful that I took the chance and expressed my feelings. Even though we lost touch when she moved to a different city, the memories of our friendship remain special to me (ii).”
Keeping his friendship at the forefront of his mind helped him recover from his heartbreak from a rejected confession. So, remember to tell yourself and your crush how much you value their friendship, or you may end up losing a close friend. Tell them, “I really value our friendship, and I hope sharing my feelings with you won’t affect that.”
33. Ask for their opinion
Ask your crush for a movie or food suggestion or their opinions about vital issues, and take their opinion seriously. For example, ask them “What’s your favorite genre of movies? I’m planning a movie night” or “What’s your go-to snack? I’m picking up some stuff for our group study session.” This will let them know that you really care.
34. Share your admiration for them
Giving compliments on their looks and outfits is great, but admiring their strengths and qualities makes a positive impression in their mind. So, say something genuine, like, “I really admire your passion for art—it’s really inspirational,” or “I’ve noticed how well you handle conflict in our friend group. I’ve learned a lot from you.”
35. Give them something they like
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If the gifts are thoughtful, they will be appreciated more. Try to find what your crush likes and gift it to them. It needn’t be expensive, even a mixtape with their favorite tracks would be a thoughtful gift. If you find out their favorite author, gift them their latest release. You could even get them their favorite snacks or candy during a study session.
36. Send flowers and cards
People like receiving flowers and compliments. So, look for a reason to send them or give them flowers to show your likeness towards them. Get them their favorite flowers with a small note that says, “Just because you’re awesome” or “These reminded me of you.”
37. Make up a nickname
When you address someone by a nickname, it suggests your closeness with that person. Make a special nickname for your crush and address them by it. It will bring you closer, and they might get your hint. For instance, call them Sunshine if they make your day brighter.
38. Don’t say “I love you”
Saying “I love you” in the beginning might suggest that you do not intuit the weight of your words. These words carry a lot of weight and should not be thrown around casually. Use these words only when you feel you truly love a person for who they are. To confess to your crush, you can say something like, “I think you’re really special and I’d like it we got to know each other a little bit more.”
39. Be honest
When sharing your feelings with your crush, honesty is the best policy. Tell your crush how they make you feel and explain why you want to be with them. Be genuine with your words. Say something like, “I adore how thoughtful you are. It’s why I enjoy spending time with you so much.”
40. Look for random reasons to contact
If you think about your crush randomly due to some incident or you stumble upon something that reminds you of them, tell them about it. This will convey to them that they are always on your mind. You could just send them a meme about the show you discussed or a song from a band you both like.
41. Say “I miss you”
If you do not meet your crush on a particular day or if they opted out of a plan with you and your friends, let them know you are thinking about them and missing them. Do not jump to conclusions and infer they are uninterested in you. A simple “I miss you” or “It’s not the same without you here today” text can go a long way in conveying your emotions.
42. Kiss them on the cheek
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Kissing your crush on the cheek before saying goodbye might be the best way to let them know what you think about them. You could accompany the kiss with a hug. However, be careful as it is important to see if that would be an acceptable physical touch for the other party.
43. Give them a hug
If you think a kiss may feel too bold or risky, give them a warm hug instead when you meet or when saying goodbye. This could be a subtle body language that you can use to convey your feelings nonverbally.
44. Give them all your attention
Even when you are with a group of friends, pay attention to what your crush is saying. Respond to them thoughtfully. It is a little gesture that makes them feel special and cared for. It may even signal to them that you are more than just a casual admirer.
45. Be a good listener
Lend your ears to your crush whether they want to vent their anger and frustration or just want someone to listen to them without judging. Don’t interrupt their flow, let them get their feelings out.
46. Say something nice about them
When you are interacting with your crush, say something nice about them in an offhand manner. For example, mention that you like their shoes or their dress or that they smell good. Alternatively, say how much you admire them and that they can make anyone feel comfortable around them. These little things go a long way in letting a person know of your true feelings.
47. Follow them on social media
In today’s world, following someone on social media is a form of showing likeness towards them. So, get on it and like their posts, and comment sweetly. Be careful not to stalk their account and like every single post on it. That may creep them out a little.
48. Offer help
Be it for their project, homework, or any event, proactively offering your help will create a good impression of you in their mind while giving you a chance to get close to them. For instance, if you see them carrying something heavy, offer to carry it, or if they need a ride home, help them out if you have a car.
49. Be their cheerleader
Supporting their goals and interests or any endeavors will help you show that you will be there for them no matter what happens. For example, if they are running a marathon, turn up at the event and cheer them on.
50. Be their plus one
Whether it’s an event, a trip, or somewhere they need to go, offer to accompany them. For instance, if they need someone to accompany them to a family event where they need support, offer to go with them. Or, if they need to fly somewhere, offer to drop and see them off at the airport. This will demonstrate that your crush can always call you if they need company.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to use body language to tell someone I like them without words?
Nonverbal communication can be used effectively to convey your interest in a person. Making eye contact constantly, smiling at them gently, leaning in slightly while talking to them, and mirroring their gestures are some ways to evince your romantic interest in someone. Confidence plays a crucial role when expressing your feelings. Being confident can make your message clearer and more impactful, increasing the likelihood of a positive response. It helps you be genuine and authentic, which is essential when confessing your feelings.
2. Is there a wrong way of telling someone I like them?
Though there is no “right” way to declare your love to someone, you should avoid certain ways of professing it. The wrong ways include doing it publicly or on social media, confessing your love on the first date itself, and expressing your feelings over text. Doing it in person is appropriate as you can read their facial expressions and body language.
3. How can I overcome the fear of rejection when expressing my feelings to someone?
Before you express your love to someone, prepare yourself for both outcomes. Remind yourself that rejection means you are better suited for another person. So, do not take rejection to heart. Go ahead and express your feelings. If it is accepted, you find yourself a partner; if not, you know your real partner is still waiting for you. You win both ways.
4. What are some good phrases to use when telling someone I like them?
Using simple, straightforward phrases can make your confession feel more genuine. Consider saying things like, “I really enjoy spending time with you,” “I think you’re amazing, and I really like you,” or “I’ve developed feelings for you and wanted to share that.” You can also try saying it through a compliment, like “I love how kind and thoughtful you are; it’s one of the many reasons I’ve fallen for you.” Keep the tone lighthearted yet honest so that your true feelings are communicated.
5. How do I handle the situation if the person I like doesn’t feel the same way?
When confessing your feelings, it’s important to understand that the person may not feel the same way and prepare yourself for that possibility. Accepting this can help you remain composed and respectful, regardless of their response. If your feelings of love are not reciprocated, you will most likely feel embarrassed. Be strong and accept their rejection. Thank them for being honest with you. After that, be as normal as you can with them. It may be difficult but try to contain your emotions and move on. The longer you stay behind, the more it will hurt you. So, let it go and look for your real partner.
6. Is it possible to maintain a friendship after confessing my feelings to someone?
Yes, you can remain friends with someone who does not reciprocate your feelings. It will be difficult initially as you may feel embarrassed to face them. But remember, if you behave normally with them, they will feel at ease and act normal with you. However, despite trying, if you feel you cannot control your feelings, then it is best to reduce contact with them. Stay cordial but do not go out of your way to maintain the friendship.
7. Should I consider the person’s past relationships before telling them I like them?
Considering their past relationship can give you an idea about their emotional availability. However, it may not help you with anything more than that. So, past relationships should not make much of a difference to you.
8. Should I be concerned about the potential impact on my social circle if I tell someone I like them?
It is essential to consider the impact of your confession on your social circle, as it can affect your friendship with others. However, social dynamics should not deter you from confessing your love to someone. Remember, if you are not in the wrong, your friends will stand by you and understand you.
9. How do you differentiate between genuine romantic interest and infatuation when telling someone you like them?
Try to evaluate the reason you feel interested in someone. If it is because of their physical appearance or other superficial reasons, it may be infatuation. And if you like them for their inner qualities, such as emotional maturity or independence, it is likely to be a romantic connection. If your feelings for them fluctuate too often, it is mostly infatuation. But feelings that do not change despite time and distance then its most likely romantic interest.
Confessing your feelings can be nerve-wracking at times, especially for those who are generally shy. So now that you have ideas on how to tell someone you like them, start planning your big confession. However, before making the first move, take time to observe whether they have the same feelings for you. If you think you should take the chance and confess, be confident and bold. Remember to keep the excitement going by sneaking in subtle hints, but don’t stretch it too long. Confess before it’s too late!
Infographic: Letting Someone Know You Like Them
It is common to search for various approaches and strategies to use when speaking to the person you want to confess your feelings. However, deciding too soon or at the wrong time can ruin everything. If you find yourself in this situation and want to know the most suitable time to confess your feelings to someone, keep this infographic below handy. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: How To Tell Someone That You Like Them: 50 Impressive Ways
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Learn how to show your crush you like them without scaring them away! Tips and tricks to ensure you don’t miss your chance to connect.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Fan mail Fridays: This is how you know if a guy truly likes you.https://thebeautyjunkee.blogspot.com/2015/07/fan-mail-fridays-this-is-how-you-know.html
ii. The Vulnerability of Love: My Experience with Confessing My Feelings.
https://medium.com/@manojmandy/the-vulnerability-of-love-my-experience-with-confessing-my-feelings-4d36ae62edec
References
- Yanming Chen et. al.; (2024); Analysis of Factors Influencing Love Confession and Result Prediction Based on Artificial Intelligence Algorithms and Questionnaire Surveys.
https://www.atlantis-press.com/proceedings/mhehd-24/126001828
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