Dating is fun but sometimes it's harder than it should be, especially when it's not clear if you're actually being asked out on a date. While everyone is at least a little guilty of leaving room for ambiguity in their flirting, I'm coming for the guys specifically about their knack for leaving us confused about the nature of our hangouts. Here's what 5 of my guy friends spilled about their opinions on the matter.
If the word "date" wasn't used when you asked them out, is it safe to assume it's just a casual hangout?
Conner, 21:
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"I would think so. I haven't asked a girl out without saying it was a date. But men are clingy, so I don't know."
Christian, 18:
"I think that some guys are too scared to say 'date' even though that's what they mean."
Mose, 21:
"It's a date when y'all agree it's a date."
Zeke, 19:
"I think it needs to be clarified on occasion."
James, 22:
"I've asked a girl out once without saying it was date."
While their answers varied slightly, demonstrating that every guy is different in the way they approach asking someone out on a date, the advice they gave girls looking to avoid confusion was fairly consistent across the board...
What advice would you give to the person being asked out if they're unsure of whether it's a date?
Conner:
"Really my only recommendation is to be honest in y'all's communication. Each person needs to be considerate of each other just in case there's a misunderstanding. One little slip isn't worth losing a meaningful friendship."
Christian:
"I suggest being upfront and confident in clarifying the situation. That has never gone south for me."
Mose:
"Some guys are wishy-washy about it, but be bold and ask upfront while you guys are hanging out."
Zeke:
"I just think it should be verbally clarified beforehand."
James:
"Always just be forthcoming with what you're feeling to make sure the other person is aware of your intentions."
So if you're ever wondering if it's a date or a casual hangout, ask yourself if the potential awkwardness of clarifying the situation beforehand is worse than the guaranteed discomfort of putting someone in the friendzone or ending up there yourself.
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