"Dating App Turn-Offs: Worst Messages to Avoid—Are You Guilty of Sending These?"
Dating App Fails: Messages to Avoid for Better Matches
[Image: Stock photo of someone frustrated with their phone]
From mainstream apps like Tinder and Bumble to niche platforms like Singles with Food Allergies or Ugly Schmuks, there’s a dating app for everyone. But no matter which you use, certain messages could sabotage your chances. A survey from FindingTheOne.com reveals the worst offenders.
Top Messages People Hate
A poll of 1,000 UK singles found that 78% despise generic openers like “Hey” or “Hi.” These low-effort greetings often lead to dead-end chats. Close behind, “You up?” (hated by 72%) and bland questions like “How are you?” (65%) also rank high.
Cheesy pickup lines turn off 59%, while phrases like “Hey beautiful/handsome” or “I never usually message first…” irritate nearly half of users. Poor grammar and spelling are dealbreakers for 61%, and 38% groan at emoji overload or replies like “k” or “lol.”
Pro Tip: Dating expert Sylvia Linzalone notes, “Tone gets lost in text. Real chemistry happens offline—messages should spark curiosity, not boredom.”
Worst Messages List
[Image: Fact box listing the top 20 disliked messages, including “You remind me of my ex” and “We’d have beautiful children”]
How to Craft Better Messages
Dating coach Hayley Quinn advises originality. Instead of “How was your weekend?” try playful prompts like, “OMG, how is it Monday already? Did your weekend live up to the hype?” This approach feels fresh and invites engagement.
Balance Compliments with Challenge
Avoid over-the-top flattery. Quinn suggests mixing praise with playful debate. For example:
- ❌ “You have a great smile!”
- ✅ “You’re into yoga? Ever swap it for trail running?”
This shows genuine interest while highlighting your personality.
Fix Empty Profiles
If a profile lacks info, Quinn recommends prompting creativity:
- “Tell me something I’d never guess about you.”
- Tease: “Something here doesn’t add up…”
- Use photos: “Is that Santorini? I’m planning a Pad Thai-fueled Asia trip!”
Key Takeaways
- Skip generic openers. Be specific or playful.
- Avoid lazy grammar and excessive emojis.
- Balance curiosity with sharing about yourself.
[Image: Person smiling at a successful dating app match]
Remember: Stand out by showing effort and personality. As Quinn says, “Your goal isn’t to please—it’s to intrigue.” Now go swipe smarter!
Word count: ~600
