Meeting Someone New? Avoid These 14 Awkward Phrases
First impressions matter. The words you choose when meeting someone new can set the tone for your entire relationship.
Some statements can make you seem rude, intrusive, or out of touch—qualities no one wants to project. Whether you’re networking, making a new friend, or starting a relationship, avoiding conversational landmines is key.
Below are 14 things you should steer clear of saying when meeting someone for the first time. Each could send the wrong message or create unnecessary discomfort, even if it’s unintentional.
“You Look Tired”
Though it might come from a place of concern, this comment can feel like an insult. No one wants to hear they look unwell or exhausted, especially from someone they’ve just met.
Instead, focus on a neutral or positive observation to start the interaction on a better note.
“How Much Money Do You Make?”
This question is invasive and inappropriate, especially when meeting someone new. Discussions about finances are personal and can make the other person feel judged or uncomfortable.
Keep the conversation light and steer clear of sensitive topics like income.
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“Why Are You Still Single?”
While it might seem like a compliment disguised as curiosity, this question often comes off as judgmental. It can make the other person feel defensive or self-conscious.
Focus on getting to know them instead of making assumptions about their life choices.
“You’re So Much Shorter/Taller Than I Expected”
Pointing out someone’s physical appearance, especially in a way that might feel like a critique, is never a good idea. Comments about height or weight can make people feel self-conscious, even if no harm was intended.
“You Won’t Believe What Happened to Me This Morning”
Opening with a rant or a detailed personal story can dominate the conversation and put the other person in the uncomfortable position of being an unwilling listener. Let the interaction start with mutual exchanges, not a one-sided monologue.
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“Do You Know So-and-So?”
While small-world connections can be fun, immediately trying to link the person to someone else can feel dismissive. It’s as if their identity is tied to someone you already know.
Focus on learning about them as an individual instead.
“How Old Are You?”
Age can be a sensitive topic, especially in certain contexts. Asking someone’s age upfront can come across as rude or irrelevant.
Stick to neutral questions that allow the conversation to flow naturally.
“What Do You Do for a Living?”
Though this is a common icebreaker, it can feel transactional, as if their job defines their worth. Instead, try something more open-ended, like asking what they’re passionate about or how they spend their time.
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“You Remind Me of Someone”
While seemingly harmless, this statement can be tricky. If the comparison isn’t flattering, it might offend the other person. Even if it’s neutral, it shifts the focus away from the present conversation.
“Are You Pregnant?”
Never assume or comment on someone’s body in a way that implies pregnancy. If you’re wrong, it’s embarrassing and hurtful.
If you’re right, it’s still not appropriate to bring up unless they choose to share.
“That’s a Weird Name—Where Is It From?”
Commenting on someone’s name in a way that suggests it’s unusual or hard to pronounce can come across as disrespectful. Instead, if you’re unsure how to say it, politely ask for guidance without drawing unnecessary attention to it.
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“You Don’t Look Like You’re From Around Here”
This phrase can feel exclusionary or even prejudiced, depending on the context. Avoid remarks that focus on someone’s ethnicity, accent, or appearance when meeting them for the first time.
“I Heard About You From…”
While sharing a mutual connection can be positive, leading with gossip or secondhand information about someone can feel intrusive. It’s better to let the person share their story in their own words.
“Wow, That’s Expensive!”
Reacting to what someone is wearing, eating, or talking about by labeling it as expensive can feel judgmental. This type of comment can make the person feel awkward or misunderstood. Focus on the person, not their choices.
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