“Call me ‘honey,’ and I’ll serve a reply that’s even sweeter.” 🍯
Hey there! I’m glad you’re here. Let’s be real getting called “honey” can feel warm and kind… or just plain awkward. I’ve been there, too. Sometimes you want to match the vibe, and other times, you need a clever comeback that hits the spot. Whether it’s from a stranger, a friend, or someone flirting, having the right reply ready makes all the difference.
In this article, I’m sharing 25 of the best replies to ‘honey’ from cute and funny to cool and confident. You’ll find simple, fun responses that anyone can use, no matter the situation. So if you’ve ever been caught off guard or just want to make the moment a little more fun, this list has you covered!
1. “Thanks, sweetie!”
Story: Anna smiled after Ben handed her a warm drink on a cold day. Feeling cozy, she said, “Thanks, sweetie!”
When to Use: This works well in a relaxed or playful setting with someone you know well, like a close friend or partner.
When Not to Use: Avoid using it with strangers, coworkers, or in formal settings where nicknames might feel too personal.
Example:
Anna: “Thanks, sweetie!”
Ben: “Anytime, Anna.”
How to Respond 🗣️ You can reply with “You’re welcome!” or say “Glad to help!” to keep it light and warm.
2. “Oh, that’s cute!”
Story: Jacob showed Emily a picture of his cat wearing a tiny hoodie. She chuckled and said, “Oh, that’s cute!”
When to Use: Perfect for reacting to pets, sweet messages, thoughtful gestures, or something mildly funny.
When Not to Use: Skip this phrase when someone is being vulnerable or serious, as it might sound dismissive.
Example:
Emily: “Oh, that’s cute!”
Jacob: “I knew you’d like it!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say something like “Glad you think so!” or “It made me smile too.”
3. “I appreciate the sentiment!”
Story: Daniel told Sarah she lights up every room she enters. Although unsure how to take the compliment, she stayed polite.
When to Use: Use it when someone says something nice, but you don’t want to engage emotionally or overcommit to the tone.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if you want to return the affection directly or if the message deserves a warmer reply.
Example:
Daniel: “You always brighten my day.”
Sarah: “I appreciate the sentiment!”
How to Respond 🗣️ A good follow-up could be “That’s kind of you,” or just smile and change the topic gently.
4. “Noted, honey!”
Story: Mia reminded Ryan to grab snacks before movie night. He smiled and replied playfully, “Noted, honey!”
When to Use: Use this in casual, flirty, or familiar settings with someone you have a close relationship with.
When Not to Use: Avoid in professional settings or with people who might find pet names uncomfortable.
Example:
Mia: “Don’t forget the popcorn!”
Ryan: “Noted, honey!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say something fun like “You better!” or keep it simple with “Good!”
5. “Thanks for that!”
Story: Emma helped Liam organize his messy files. He turned around and said, “Thanks for that!”
When to Use: Use it when someone helps you or shares helpful information, casually and kindly.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it when the favor wasn’t welcome or if it’s a big gesture that deserves more.
Example:
Liam: “Thanks for that!”
Emma: “Glad I could help.”
How to Respond 🗣️ You can say “Anytime!” or “Happy to help.”
6. “I’m flattered, thanks!”
Story: Olivia complimented Jack’s sense of style, and he smiled modestly.
When to Use: Use this when someone gives you a compliment and you want to sound thankful and humble.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if you’re uncomfortable and want to set boundaries—choose another phrase instead.
Example:
Olivia: “You always dress so sharp.”
Jack: “I’m flattered, thanks!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Try “Well deserved!” or “Keep it up!”
7. “Thanks, but I prefer my name.”
Story: Nora met Adam online, and he called her “babe” during their first chat. She calmly corrected him.
When to Use: Use this if someone uses a nickname you don’t like or weren’t expecting.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if it’s a harmless slip or you’re okay with casual nicknames.
Example:
Adam: “Hey babe.”
Nora: “Thanks, but I prefer my name.”
How to Respond 🗣️ A good reply is “Got it!” or “Of course, Nora.”
8. “I’m not sure how to respond to that.”
Story: Mason joked about Chloe’s outfit, but she wasn’t sure if it was teasing or praise.
When to Use: Say this when a comment feels confusing or unclear and you need time to process it.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it for clear compliments or supportive messages—be direct in those moments.
Example:
Mason: “That’s… definitely a look.”
Chloe: “I’m not sure how to respond to that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Clarify by saying “Sorry, I meant it in a good way,” or “Let me explain better.”
9. “I appreciate your kindness.
Story: Ava offered to help Dylan carry his books to class. He smiled with gratitude.
When to Use: Great for situations where someone is caring or thoughtful, even in small ways.
When Not to Use: Avoid it when you don’t genuinely feel thankful or when someone’s actions felt off.
Example:
Dylan: “I appreciate your kindness.”
Ava: “You’re very welcome.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “It’s nothing!” or “Anytime!”
10. “I’m not comfortable with that.”
Story: Julia was in a group chat when Ben gave her an unexpected nickname. She decided to set a boundary.
When to Use: Use this if someone crosses a line, even playfully, and you need to speak up.
When Not to Use: Avoid using it in casual banter unless you truly feel uneasy.
Example:
Ben: “You’re my cupcake now!”
Julia: “I’m not comfortable with that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ A good reply is “I didn’t mean to upset you,” or “I’ll stop.”
11. “Thanks for the sweet talk!”
Story: Ella received a long, kind message from Liam before her big test. She blushed and responded warmly.
When to Use: This works well after a compliment or encouraging words that lifted your mood.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if the words felt fake or unwanted.
Example:
Liam: “You’ve got this. You’re amazing.”
Ella: “Thanks for the sweet talk!”
How to Respond 🗣️ You can say “Always rooting for you!” or “Happy to be your cheerleader.”
12. “That’s very kind of you.”
Story: Nathan offered to cover Claire’s lunch when she forgot her wallet.
When to Use: This fits when someone shows generosity or genuine support.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if the person made you feel uncomfortable while helping.
Example:
Claire: “That’s very kind of you.”
Nathan: “I couldn’t let you go hungry!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “That’s what friends are for,” or “I’ve got your back.”
13. “I’m fine with just my name.”
Story: Jacob called Lily “sweetheart” after meeting her once. She gently corrected him.
When to Use: Use it to set boundaries with nicknames early on in conversations.
When Not to Use: Don’t use this with close friends or family who use names with love and care.
Example:
Jacob: “How are you, sweetheart?”
Lily: “I’m fine with just my name.”
How to Respond 🗣️ A polite response would be “No problem, Lily,” or “Understood.”
14. “Thanks, you’re sweet!”
Story: Sophie complimented Daniel’s singing voice after he performed at karaoke night.
When to Use: Great for reacting to compliments, cute gestures, or friendly jokes.
When Not to Use: Avoid it in serious or formal conversations.
Example:
Sophie: “You sounded amazing tonight!”
Daniel: “Thanks, you’re sweet!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “You’re welcome!” or “You deserved it!”
15. “I prefer a more formal address.”
Story: Liam emailed his professor and got a response beginning with “Hey champ.” He politely asked for professionalism.
When to Use: Use it in formal environments or professional settings when tone matters.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it in casual chats or with people close to you.
Example:
Liam: “I prefer a more formal address.”
Professor: “Understood, Mr. Liam.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Reply with “Thank you,” or “Appreciate the respect.”
16. “I’m not sure how to take that.”
Story: Zoe received a half-joking message from Amir about her new hairstyle. Unsure if it was a compliment, she responded honestly.
When to Use: Use when someone’s words are unclear or might carry double meaning.
When Not to Use: Avoid using this if the intention is clearly positive and lighthearted.
Example:
Amir: “That’s a bold look, huh?”
Zoe: “I’m not sure how to take that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say, “Sorry if it came out wrong,” or clarify your intention.
17. “Thanks, that’s kind of you.”
Story: Daniel held the door open for Julia when her hands were full, and she smiled as she passed.
When to Use: Best for friendly, polite gestures or soft compliments.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it when sarcasm or negativity is involved.
Example:
Julia: “Thanks, that’s kind of you.”
Daniel: “Anytime!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Reply with “Just helping out!” or “No worries at all.”
18. “I prefer a more professional tone.”
Story: Nina received a message from her client calling her “buddy” in a business email. She replied clearly but respectfully.
When to Use: Use this when communication gets too casual in formal situations.
When Not to Use: Avoid it with friends or in informal settings.
Example:
Nina: “I prefer a more professional tone.”
Client: “Understood. I’ll keep it formal.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Thanks for understanding” or “Appreciated.”
19. “That’s a bit too personal for me.”
Story: Hassan made a comment about Isla’s family situation during a group meeting, and she felt it crossed the line.
When to Use: Use it to set boundaries when someone brings up sensitive or private matters.
When Not to Use: Avoid using this if the person is genuinely concerned or close to you.
Example:
Hassan: “Are things okay at home?”
Isla: “That’s a bit too personal for me.”
How to Respond 🗣️ A kind follow-up is “I didn’t mean to pry” or “Thanks for telling me.”
20. “I appreciate your friendliness.”
Story: Sophie greeted Ryan warmly at his new job. He smiled, happy to feel welcomed.
When to Use: Use it when someone is genuinely kind or makes you feel included.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it in sarcastic or cold situations.
Example:
Ryan: “I appreciate your friendliness.”
Sophie: “Happy to help you settle in!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Glad I could help” or “That means a lot.”
21. “I’m okay with my name, thanks.”
Story: Leo kept calling Aria “sunshine” during class. She gently let him know her preference.
When to Use: Perfect when someone repeatedly uses nicknames that don’t sit well with you.
When Not to Use: Avoid this with friends who’ve always used that name affectionately—have the talk gently instead.
Example:
Leo: “Hey sunshine!”
Aria: “I’m okay with my name, thanks.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Got it, Aria,” or “I’ll stick to your name.”
See also: “Heartfelt Ways to Reply When Someone Says ‘Keep Safe’”
22. “Thanks for the compliment!”
Story: Marcus told Chloe she had a great speaking voice. She grinned and thanked him.
When to Use: Use this when someone says something nice about you and you want to acknowledge it gracefully.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the comment made you feel uncomfortable or wasn’t sincere.
Example:
Marcus: “You sound amazing on stage!”
Chloe: “Thanks for the compliment!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Try “Glad you liked it!” or “I appreciate that!”
23. “I prefer to be addressed by name.”
Story: Jake addressed Eliza as “lady” during a group call. She calmly corrected him.
When to Use: Best when someone uses terms you’re not okay with in place of your actual name.
When Not to Use: Avoid this in playful settings unless you really dislike the nickname.
Example:
Jake: “Alright, lady, your turn.”
Eliza: “I prefer to be addressed by name.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Got it, Eliza,” or “Will do.
24. “Thanks for the kind words!”
Story: Oliver praised Fatima’s efforts in the presentation. She responded with genuine gratitude.
When to Use: Use this when someone gives you a sincere compliment or feedback.
When Not to Use: Avoid this when the message feels shallow or forced.
Example:
Oliver: “You really carried the team today.”
Fatima: “Thanks for the kind words!”
How to Respond 🗣️ You can say “It means a lot” or “Appreciate your support!”
25. “I’m not a fan of being called that.”
Story: Ava felt uneasy when Jay kept calling her “princess” in public.
When to Use: When a nickname feels too much, too personal, or makes you uncomfortable.
When Not to Use: Don’t use this if it’s a rare slip and you’re not offended.
Example:
Jay: “Morning, princess!”
Ava: “I’m not a fan of being called that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Sorry about that,” or “I’ll stop.”
26. “I prefer more formal address, please.”
Story: During a meeting, Ryan’s client referred to him as “buddy.” He decided to maintain boundaries.
When to Use: Use when you’re in a professional environment and want to keep things respectful.
When Not to Use: Avoid this if the person is just being lighthearted and you’re okay with it.
Example:
Client: “Thanks, buddy!”
Ryan: “I prefer more formal address, please.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Respond with “Absolutely, Ryan,” or “Understood.”
27. “Thanks for the affection!”
Story: Naomi’s close friend hugged her after hearing she was stressed. She softly replied with appreciation.
When to Use: When someone gives you a heartfelt compliment, hug, or support during an emotional time.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it when the affection feels inappropriate or fake.
Example:
Friend: “You deserve all the love.”
Naomi: “Thanks for the affection!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “You got it,” or “Always here for you.”
28. “I’d prefer if you used my name.”
Story: Logan called Maya “sweetheart” during a customer service chat. She clarified kindly.
When to Use: Use this when someone uses an informal or overly familiar term.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if the term is being used playfully by someone close.
Example:
Logan: “Thanks, sweetheart.”
Maya: “I’d prefer if you used my name.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Of course, Maya,” or “Will do.”
29. “Thanks for your kind words!”
Story: Sarah gave Aiden a pep talk before his job interview. He smiled and showed his appreciation.
When to Use: Use this when someone cheers you up or supports you with a heartfelt message.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it when the person didn’t really say anything meaningful.
Example:
Sarah: “You’re going to crush it today.”
Aiden: “Thanks for your kind words!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Good luck!” or “I’ll be rooting for you!”
30. “I prefer not to be called that.”
Story: Ella noticed Max kept calling her “darling” during group chats. She decided to speak up.
When to Use: Use this when you want to politely but clearly set a boundary with someone.
When Not to Use: Avoid using it if it was a harmless one-time mention.
Example:
Max: “You okay, darling?”
Ella: “I prefer not to be called that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Thanks for letting me know,” or “I’ll stop.”
31. “Let’s keep it respectful, please.”
Story: During a debate, Ayaan called Jason a silly name. Jason took the high road and responded calmly.
When to Use: Use when conversations start to feel disrespectful or immature.
When Not to Use: Avoid using it if it was clearly just a joke and no harm was intended.
Example:
Ayaan: “You’re just being dramatic.”
Jason: “Let’s keep it respectful, please.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Fair enough,” or “I get it.”
32. “I’d rather stick to names.”
Story: Rosa was chatting with a classmate who kept using terms like “dear” and “honey.” She gently corrected him.
When to Use: Use this when informal terms feel forced or out of place.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it with friends who already have that dynamic with you.
Example:
Classmate: “You did great, honey.”
Rosa: “I’d rather stick to names.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Sure thing, Rosa,” or “Got it.”
33. “Please don’t call me that.”
Story: Noah called Amira “babe” after just two messages. Amira didn’t feel okay with it.
When to Use: Use this if a term makes you uncomfortable or seems inappropriate.
When Not to Use: Avoid this if you’re in a casual space where nicknames are common and accepted.
Example:
Noah: “Hey babe!”
Amira: “Please don’t call me that.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “My bad,” or “I’ll respect that.”
34. “Let’s keep it professional.”
Story: In a client meeting, Mason cracked jokes and used buddy talk with Ava. She reset the tone politely.
When to Use: Use this if things get too casual and you want to keep it serious.
When Not to Use: Avoid this with coworkers you know well unless boundaries are needed.
Example:
Mason: “You’re the boss, champ!”
Ava: “Let’s keep it professional.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Of course,” or “Got it.”
35. “I’d like to be addressed properly.”
Story: Clara was introduced to someone who called her “girlie.” She calmly responded with grace.
When to Use: Use when someone is being too casual or even dismissive with how they speak to you.
When Not to Use: Avoid using it if the term came from someone very close and well-intentioned.
Example:
Someone: “Nice to meet you, girlie.”
Clara: “I’d like to be addressed properly.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say “Understood,” or “Apologies.”
Top 15 Editor’s Choice Responses
These hand-picked replies stand out for their charm, wit, and perfect balance of attitude and affection:
- “Thanks, but I prefer my name.”
– Confident, respectful, and sets boundaries clearly. - “Well, aren’t you sweet?”
– Light and flirty without committing too much. - “I didn’t know we were that close.”
– Adds just enough sarcasm to spark curiosity. - “Noted, honey—but I’m still the boss here.”
– Playful with a touch of power. - “You trying to butter me up for something?”
– Teasing with a smile. - “Aw, you’re trying to be cute. It’s working… kinda.”
– Half compliment, half challenge. - “That’s adorable. But I charge for pet names.”
– Sassy with a twist of humor. - “Only my grandma calls me that, careful now.”
– Funny and low-key flirty. - “Is that your go-to for everyone or just me?”
– Turns the table with a curious edge. - “I’ll let that slide this once.”
– Slightly cheeky, very in control. - “Appreciate the sweetness, but I’m more of a ‘legend’ type.”
– Clever and full of personality. - “You keep saying that and I might just believe you.”
– Flirty with room for more. - “Sweet talker alert! What’s your angle?”
– Suspicious in the cutest way. - “Careful now, I might start calling you ‘cupcake.’”
– Mirrors the energy while adding some spice. - “Flattery will get you everywhere.”
– Smooth and open to the vibe.
Conclusion
Nicknames like “honey” can mean many things comfort, flirtation, or just plain awkwardness. It all depends on who says it and how you feel about it.
Whether you’re cool with the term or prefer to respond with sass, humor, or affection, the right reply can make the moment fun, memorable, or set the record straight.
In the end, how you respond to “honey” is your chance to own the conversation with class, charm, or a cheeky comeback that fits your vibe.
I’m Lily Hart, the Admin behind the engaging responses at SayStyles.com! With a knack for blending wit and warmth, I turn every piece of writing into something memorable. From clever advice to fun comebacks, I’m here to make sure every response leaves you smiling and thinking.
