You’re excited about your dating app matches but you have no idea how to kick off an actual conversation with them. You don’t want to come off as desperate or weird but you also want to be memorable and stand out. Here are some Tinder conversation starters to try when you’re just getting to know someone.
- Try a fun fact. If you need one of your own, here’s a kooky one. Did you know that the collective noun of a porcupine is a prickle? Using random bits of trivia as one of your go-to Tinder conversation starters (though maybe not this exact fact) will make you seem more memorable and interesting. You may be seen as quirky and a bit more lighthearted, and you’ll certainly be considered creative!
- Play “two truths and a lie.” This game is straight out of your 7th grade parties when girls and guys first got to hang out without parents. For this reason, it’s one of the most perfect conversation starters for Tinder or any other dating apps. You can reveal memorable information about yourself while also thinking strategically about which lie you have at your disposal. You’ll find that you’re way more interesting than you think! Plus, it will draw your match into the conversation from the get-go, which is always a good thing.
- Start with dog pictures. This works best if they are pictures of your own pets, not just internet animals. You introduce yourself with a topic you’re passionate about, which is great, and you also get to feel out whether or not they love animals. (It may be a deal-breaker if they’re not). Plus, they will most likely reply with a picture of their own pets and you can find an immediate point of connection. It’s win-win!
- Find a cringy pickup line. “Are you from Tennessee? ‘Cause you’re the only ten I see!” Haha… not. Well, it’s charming in a certain sense, and if you’re with the right person, they’ll find it hilarious. As far as conversation starters go, your Tinder matches might appreciate this as long as you present it as an obvious bit of sarcasm/definitely not serious.
- Ask them about the worst thing they’ve ever done. Most people wouldn’t reveal that information to people in their close friendship circle, let alone a stranger. However, what it will do is cement your question and your boldness in their memory. By challenging them with this question, you’re showing how unexpected and spontaneous you are, but that you’re deep too.
- Ask what their favorite movie/book/band is. This is one of the best Tinder conversation starters because people tend to be pretty passionate about their favorite art. If their profile mentions loving music or being a big reader, you have a bit more guidance on which way to lean with this line of questioning. You’ll find out how much common ground you have together by broaching this topic, as well as having a built-in date suggestion if you decide to meet in person.
- Ask about their favorite food. I know it’s a little bit cliche, but for a good reason. People love food and we all have to eat. Why not discuss what your favorite cuisines/particular dishes are? As far as Tinder conversation starters go, this is on par with talking about your favorite art because it not only ignites some animated chat, but it also gives you an idea for what to do on your first (and second, third, etc.) date.
- Ask them about history. Current events are a bit of a drag, so you’ll want to leave the war in Ukraine or the cost of living crisis off your list of Tinder conversation starters. Instead, why not chat about history? This is an especially good option if your match is a history nerd and isn’t shy about saying so. Granted, this is a risky one if you’re not sure whether or not they’re interested in history, but if you got some positive signs from their bio, go for it.
- Chat about podcasts. Asking what what podcasts your match likes listening to on their morning commute/daily jog/dog walk is more revealing than it might appear on the surface. Whether they have a quiet, reflective playlist that passes the time, or if they educate themselves on the industry they work in, or on social justice, or a crime podcast, you learn the most about a person by how they spend their downtime. You can have really meaningful conversations on Tinder right off the bat by using this as a jump-off.
Tinder conversation starters for when things are getting extra flirty
The below ideas aren’t for people you’ve never talked to before in your life. Instead, they’re more conversation continuers rather than starters to use with someone you’ve been talking to for a bit and with whom the sexual tension is out of control. Proceed if you dare!
- “Do you think you’re good in bed?” Might as well clear the air about why you’re both continuing to chat. You’re clearly attracted to each other, so why beat around the bush, so to speak? Be bold and you might be impressed by what you get back. When it comes to Tinder conversation starters, this one will certainly get their attention (though you likely have it already by this point).
- “Will you make me come?” Asking these sorts of adventurous, provocative questions will show the person you’re talking to that you mean business and that you will show them a good time in return. It also shows you have your priorities right. Of course, you probably shouldn’t go down this line of questioning if you don’t plan on putting your money where your mouth is…
- “What are you doing tonight and tomorrow morning?” Yes, this is considered one of the more normal conversation starters on Tinder even though it’s really just a cheesy pickup line. This suggestive question lets them know that you’re DTF and open to staying at their place tonight, and it’s a huge compliment. If they’re also looking to have a little fun, you just may get lucky tonight.
- “What’s the first thing you noticed about me?” Are you fishing for compliments here? Maybe. Will you get that validation anyway you want? Yes. More power to you — you know they swiped on you, so why not get more information on that? Tap into what they like about you on day one. You know you’re curious.
- “What’s your weirdest sex story?” This is a fun way of lightening the mood and showing your conversation partner that you’re light-hearted. Knowing how to have fun is important when you’re flirting over Tinder, and being interesting and memorable is the best way to get that first date. Asking about their oddest sexual experience will achieve both things.
