The Best Texts to Break Things Off After a Bad First Date

may 7, 2023

Whether you're the kind of person who gets super nervous before a first date or the kind of person who just breezes through it like it's any other interaction, most of us have had some first dates that were anything but ideal.

While a bad first date is nothing to stress about (think of it as a learning experience and one where you narrow down to finding the actual right person), it can leave you in a slightly awkward place if you're left needing to break things off afterward. While you don't owe anyone anything after one date, you can cut things off cleanly by sending a well-crafted text. If you need some help, we've got you covered with our list of the best texts you can send to break things off after a bad first date.

Texts to Send If You Felt a More Friendly Vibe

"Hey! It was so great meeting you and I'd love to hang out again but more as friends if that's something you're okay with? I completely understand if not, just wanted to let you know where my head's at. Thanks again for a fun time!"
"Got home safe! Thanks for a great night, I felt like we'd be better off spending time as friends though, to be honest."

(via Unsplash)

Also read about: How You React After a Bad Date, Based on Your Zodiac Sign

Short but Sweet Texts to Send After a Bad First Date

"I had a great time, I just don't see things going anywhere between us."
"Thanks for tonight, you're great, but I don't think we're the right match for each other."
"Thanks for tonight, good luck out there!"
"Not trying to be a ghost, just wanted to let you know I had fun but don't see this going anywhere. Have a great night!"

Texts to Let Them Down Easy

"It was great meeting you, and I think you're a wonderful person, but I want to show you the respect you deserve and let you know that I just don't think I'm into this."
"Hey! I wish I was sending a different kind of message, but I just wanted to let you know I don't think we're the right match romantically. Thank you for your time though, I wish you all the best!"
"Thanks for hanging out with me tonight, unfortunately I didn't really feel a spark, but I know you're perfect for someone else out there!"

(via Unsplash)

Texts to Send If You Want Different Things

"It was great to meet you, unfortunately, though I just think we're looking for different things."
"Thanks for your interest in getting to know me, I enjoyed talking with you, but I think I'm just looking for something else."

And if you could tell they totally aren't over their ex:

"It was great getting to know you, but it seems like you're not quite ready to date yet. I've been in your shoes before so I get it if you need time to recover, wish you all the best and hope you eventually find the right person!"

Also read about: 5 Solid Excuses to Leave a Bad Date

Texts to Send If You're Genuinely Too Busy to Date Right Now

"I've really enjoyed talking with you and getting to know you but unfortunately, I just don't think right now is a good time for me to be dating."
"I had so much fun tonight, unfortunately my schedule is so packed for the time being I just don't know if or when I'd be able to go out again. Wish you all the best out there, though!"

(via Unsplash)

Of course, these are all texts to send if a date was bad but not, you know, horrifying. In that case, feel free to send a text calling out this person's behavior and/or just block them right off the bat. You're fully validated in doing what feels right and, even more importantly, what makes you feel safe.

Fortunately, there are some good things that can come out of a bad date. Don't believe us? Click HERE to read about the top four.