Dating tips
May 24, 2025
What to say when you meet: top phrases that work


Online dating has become an integral part of our lives. But how do you approach someone through a smartphone or computer screen? An introduction starts with a notification that often proves decisive for how a relationship develops. The greeting you choose when you address another person is hugely important for creating a positive impression. In this blog we’ll look at which original opening lines work and which are best left behind.
Why the First Message Decides Everything in Dating
If you’ve decided to find love or new friends through the Detto dating platform, the opening question matters enormously. It’s not just a chance to grab attention but an opportunity to present yourself in the best light. Every message you send should be thought through and aligned with your goal.
The first message is the one chance to make an impression, so take it seriously. You don’t have much time to show your personality, and this step can determine whether contact moves forward. Think right away about how to write a first message to a woman—or to a guy—if you value the dialog. If you want the conversation to go on and that first impression to be positive, don’t settle for a plain greeting and very simple sentences.
The Psychology of a First Impression
On a subconscious level people form an opinion of someone within a few seconds of contact. In online interaction those few seconds often come down to your text. So the key is for that notification to spark positive feelings and create a sense of interest and friendliness. The very first communication determines whether your conversation partner will want to keep talking.
How Fast People Judge in Dating Chats
In online dating people often decide after just a few words. That’s why your opening line is crucial for making contact. On Detto you can quickly size someone up by their profile, but the very first phrase is often the deciding factor in whether the dialog continues. Don’t be afraid to be original so you stand out from the crowd.
Opening Lines That Really Work
Your goal is to catch attention and interest the person, not leave them indifferent. The best phrases for meeting a woman or man should be interesting, original, and spark further conversation.
Compliments matter, too—but not all compliments are equal. They need to sound natural and sincere. Saying something that genuinely matches what you noticed in the person’s profile is far more effective than generic comments.
A Compliment With Context
Creative compliments can kick off a chat beautifully, but they need to be specific and tied to what you saw or read in the profile. You might highlight a detail in a photo or mention a hobby description. Such a compliment sounds far more genuine than a blanket “You’re really pretty.” It should feel like you truly care about the person rather than just trying to flatter them.
Questions That Spark Interest
Besides compliments, opening questions play a big role. They help keep the conversation going and show you’re genuinely interested. Skip the routine “How are you?” and ask more intriguing questions that let someone share something personal and unusual.

Here are a few questions that can immediately raise the level of your chat:
- What moment in your life inspires you the most?
- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
- What’s your favorite way to unwind after a tough day?
- If you had three wishes, what would you choose?
- Do you have a hobby you think is unusual?
These questions don’t just start a conversation; they create a positive impression and show your curiosity and openness to offbeat topics.
The Worst Opening Lines - Avoid These
First lines to a guy or girl online can heavily influence how communication unfolds. But some phrases get an instant thumbs‑down and kill the chat. Know which words to skip so you don’t come off as indifferent or disrespectful.
Bland questions like “Hi, how are you?” or “You’re pretty” often sound shallow and give no path forward. They can make it seem like you’re not putting effort into a real connection, lowering interest fast.
Instead, use questions and comments that prompt the person to share more about themselves, their passions, or their outlook. Ask about favorite activities, events that inspire them, or exciting future plans.
That not only opens the door for more conversation; it shows your genuine interest in the individual. Such questions encourage real understanding and a deeper, more candid dialog where both sides can share thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It helps you connect on a richer emotional level, boosting interaction quality.
Why “Hi” Alone Isn’t Enough
Communication is the foundation of a good first impression. A bare “Hi” with no context or question is too thin. It gives the other person no info about you, and they might not want to keep chatting. Always add something extra so your greeting stands out.
Too Many Appearance Compliments—A Risky Move
Nice words about looks can be pleasant, but pile on too many and they feel fake. A seemingly sweet compliment like “You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen” can come off as a cheesy cliché. Focus on the person’s personality, not only their looks.
Top Five Lines That Rarely Work
Certain lines generally don’t lead to a good encounter—they sound shallow or even pushy, signaling you’re not interested in a real conversation.

Here’s a list to avoid:
- “You’re pretty/handsome, but…” (Without context it’s superficial).
- “Are you even real?” (Can be seen as disrespectful).
- “You’re my ideal” (Feels like over‑the‑top pressure).
- “Why are you single?” (May make someone uncomfortable).
- “Hi, wanna chat?” (Too generic; no spark to continue).
Such lines often trigger discomfort or distrust because they sound formulaic and hollow. People quickly sense when compliments lack sincerity or when you’re just filling space.
Choose your words with care. Be sincere and specific, notice details that show genuine interest. Ask questions and make comments that encourage deeper conversation and prove you’re paying attention.
How to Stand Out in the Dating World
In online dating, it’s not just the first message that counts—you also need to be yourself. The more you open up, the better your chances of meeting someone who clicks with you. Original phrasing and honest communication will help you stand out on Detto.
Remember, connection is always two‑way, so pay attention to how you talk with others. Your sincerity, interest, and willingness to converse determine both the success of the intro and the relationship’s future.
Conclusion - Sincerity, Curiosity, Respect
First impressions really do matter, because they decide whether a conversation continues. Choose the right words to start the dialog and your odds of further interaction soar. Be original, attentive, and sincere. That builds a climate of trust where everyone feels comfortable and willing to keep chatting.
Stay open to new connections and break free from stock phrases. Respect the other person’s individuality and show curiosity about their interests and views. That helps you build deeper rapport.
Detto offers a great chance to meet people with similar views and interests. On this platform you can meet those who share your values. Start with a pleasant, easygoing message—an excellent springboard for future chats. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and find someone with whom you can build a genuine, honest relationship.
By using simple yet effective expressions, you can leave a lasting mark and begin an engaging conversation that may grow into something real.