How to Say No to a Second Date (Because Ghosting Is *Not* the Answer)

Youve just made it through your spicy tuna roll and yet another conversation about your dates trip to Italy last year (we get it, the food was amazing). They want to take you to a cute little pizza place next weekend, but you know deep down in your heart that the sparks just arent flying. So, whats the proper etiquette when it comes to turning down a second date? (Because ghosting is not cool.)

First of all, props for taking that first date step-its not easy! And now, lets get some expert advice on how to end things nicely but firmly, minus any confusion or lingering, “Hey, I was just thinking about you” texts. We tapped sex and relationship expert Shan Boodram for her best tips.

is Bumbles sex relationships expert, a certified sexologist, sex education counselor with a B.A. psychology, and bestselling author who has made appearances on Netflixs Too Hot to Handle, Oz, and more.

1. Be honest

“Be honest and dont over-promise,” urges Boodram. “You can still be polite without giving false hope it will happen again,” she reassures us.

And heres another great tip from the relationship expert: If you met on a dating app, keep the conversation on there for the first date without exchanging numbers. “If you set this expectation, it will be clear that another date with you is not given and also, this makes it much easier to stop communication.” Post-date, you can simply message them in the app to thank them again for their time, wish them well in future and then unmatch.

2. And keep it brief

Clear and concise is the name of the game when saying no to a second date. “Don’t drag it out,” says Boodram. “If you just got home from a date and all the signs are there that you dont want to proceed, try texting or calling them the moment its appropriate.”

Rambling is a nervous habit for many of us and can sometimes make you feel better about what youre doing or even come across as apologetic. But going on and on is really not helpful-keep it nice and short. (Easier said than done, we know, but trust us on this one-calling it quits sooner rather than later will save everyone a whole lot of heartache.)

Dont say: “Wow, that restaurant was great-I cant believe how amazing that ice cream was! I also loved hearing all about your travels and your summer plans, I hope you have fun on your camping trip. But even though I had a nice evening (and will definitely be ordering three scoops next time!), I just dont think that this is a good match. I hope you understand. Im so sorry! I really did have a great time.”

3. Be sensitive to their feelings

And at the end of the day, you dont have to be an empath to recognize that were all human with complex emotions. Boodrams biggest tip here is to be cognizant and acknowledge the other persons feelings when you decide to say no Tinder vs Badoo cost to a second date. “Even though you’ve only been on one date with the person, and you don’t owe them anything, I think we can also all agree that the culture of ghosting and making people feel disposable needs to go,” she says. “With this in mind, try to make space for a brief closure conversation where you can acknowledge the other person’s feelings and answer any questions if they request it. After that thank them for their time and be clear that this is the end of your communication chain.”

Do say: “I really enjoyed getting to know you, but the chemistry that Im looking for was not there on my end.”

Bottom line: Honesty, brevity and sensitivity are key to ending things politely yet firmly. Youve got this-just remember to breathe through the anxiety and know that there are plenty of fish in the sea…even if you settle on the tuna roll solo-dolo.