“Best Ways to Respond When Someone Likes You” [2025]

“When someone says they like you, the best way to respond can change everything.”

Hey there, I’m really glad you’re here because let’s be honest, getting liked by someone can feel sweet, surprising, or even a little confusing. I’ve been in that moment too heart racing, thoughts spinning, wondering what should I say now?

Sometimes we’re excited, other times unsure, or maybe we just don’t feel the same way. And guess what? That’s totally okay. The key is knowing how to reply kindly, confidently, and honestly no matter what you feel inside.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the best ways to respond when someone likes you from sweet replies to polite no’s—so you’ll feel ready, real, and respectful every time it happens.

1. “Wow, I didn’t expect that! I need some time to think.”

Story:
Ahsan casually confessed his feelings to Noor during lunch. She was surprised and wasn’t ready to respond right away.

When to Use:
Use when you’re caught off guard and genuinely need time to process.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’ve already made up your mind but don’t want to be direct.

Example:
Ahsan: “I’ve liked you for a while now.”
Noor: “Wow, I didn’t expect that! I need some time to think.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I understand. Take all the time you need.”

2. “I really appreciate your honesty. I like you too!”

Story:
Hira nervously told Sameer about her feelings. Sameer smiled and replied warmly, showing he felt the same.

When to Use:
Use when you’re happy to hear their confession and share similar feelings.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re unsure or just being polite.

Example:
Hira: “I think I like you more than just a friend.”
Sameer: “I really appreciate your honesty. I like you too!”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That makes me really happy.”

3. “That’s really flattering, but I don’t feel the same way.”

Story:
Ali confessed his feelings to Sara during a study session. She gently turned him down while still being kind.

When to Use:
Use when you respect the person but don’t share romantic feelings.

When Not to Use:
Avoid harsh wording—this version is polite and clear.

Example:
Ali: “I’ve had a crush on you for months.”
Sara: “That’s really flattering, but I don’t feel the same way.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thank you for being honest with me.”

4. “I value our friendship a lot and don’t want to risk that.”

Story:
Nimra’s best friend Fahad told her he had feelings for her. She appreciated it but didn’t want to change their bond.

When to Use:
Use when you truly care about the person as a friend and want to keep it that way.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re open to something more—you may close that door.

Example:
Fahad: “I think I like you as more than a friend.”
Nimra: “I value our friendship a lot and don’t want to risk that.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That means a lot. Let’s just keep things like they are.”

5. “I’m flattered, but I’m currently not looking for a relationship.”

Story:
Waleed expressed interest in Rabia, hoping for a date. Rabia was kind but made her priorities clear.

When to Use:
Use when you’re not emotionally available but still respect the person.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you are interested but nervous—this may send the wrong message.

Example:
Waleed: “I’ve wanted to ask you out for weeks.”
Rabia: “I’m flattered, but I’m currently not looking for a relationship.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thanks for being upfront. I get it.”

6. “Thank you for sharing your feelings. Can we talk about this more?”

Story:
Farhan opened up to Sana about his feelings after class. Sana didn’t want to rush and asked for a calm conversation later.

When to Use:
Use when you’re unsure how you feel but open to exploring it.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’ve already decided you’re not interested.

Example:
Farhan: “I really like you and had to say it.”
Sana: “Thank you for sharing your feelings. Can we talk about this more?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Of course. I want to understand where you’re coming from.”

7. “I’m really touched by your confession. Let’s take things slow.”

Story:
Areeba confessed to Zain during a walk home. Zain liked her too but didn’t want to rush anything.

When to Use:
Use when you feel mutual interest but prefer a slow pace.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re looking for immediate commitment.

Example:
Areeba: “I think I’ve developed feelings for you.”
Zain: “I’m really touched by your confession. Let’s take things slow.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’d like that. No pressure at all.”

8. “I didn’t expect this, but I’m open to seeing where things go.”

Story:
Hassan confessed to Fariha over coffee. She was surprised but curious and open-minded.

When to Use:
Use when you’re not sure yet but want to give it a fair chance.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not interested—don’t give false hope.

Example:
Hassan: “I’ve been meaning to say this for a while—I like you.”
Fariha: “I didn’t expect this, but I’m open to seeing where things go.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That’s more than I hoped for—thank you.”

9. “I’m happy you told me how you feel. I need to think about it.”

Story:
Bilal sent a long message to Mishal, expressing his feelings. Mishal read it and needed time to reflect.

When to Use:
Use when you want to respond respectfully but aren’t ready yet.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you already know your answer and don’t want to delay.

Example:
Bilal: “I like you and had to get it off my chest.”
Mishal: “I’m happy you told me how you feel. I need to think about it.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Take all the time you need. I appreciate your honesty.”

10. “I’m really glad you shared this with me. Can we hang out more?”

Story:
Usman confessed to Mahnoor during a group trip. She felt comfortable but wanted to know him better.

When to Use:
Use when you’re not ready to say yes or no, but want to build a deeper connection first.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not interested and don’t want to lead them on.

Example:
Usman: “I’ve liked you for some time now.”
Mahnoor: “I’m really glad you shared this with me. Can we hang out more?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’d love that. Let’s take our time.”

11. “I appreciate your feelings. Let’s talk about this after the weekend.”

Story:
Mariam received a heartfelt message from Saad on Friday night. She didn’t want to rush her response, so she asked for time.

When to Use:
Use when you need time to think without giving an immediate answer.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re trying to avoid the conversation altogether.

Example:
Saad: “I like you and needed to say it.”
Mariam: “I appreciate your feelings. Let’s talk about this after the weekend.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Sure, take the time you need. I’ll be here.”

12. “That’s really sweet. I’m not sure how I feel right now.”

Story:
Taha shared his emotions with Anum after school. Anum was gentle but honest about being unsure.

When to Use:
Use when you don’t know your own feelings yet and need clarity.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re sure you’re not interested—it may sound misleading.

Example:
Taha: “I think I’m falling for you.”
Anum: “That’s really sweet. I’m not sure how I feel right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“No worries. Take your time figuring it out.”

13. “Thank you for being open with me. I like you as a friend.”

Story:
Nabeel confessed to Iqra after months of talking. Iqra didn’t want to hurt him but stayed honest.

When to Use:
Use when you want to stay friends but don’t share romantic interest.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you feel pressured—be calm and respectful.

Example:
Nabeel: “I’ve really developed feelings for you.”
Iqra: “Thank you for being open with me. I like you as a friend.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I respect your honesty. Let’s keep our friendship strong.”

14. “I’m touched by your confession. Can we take it one step at a time?”

Story:
Fatima got a sweet message from Imran confessing his interest. She was open but wanted to move slowly.

When to Use:
Use when you’re interested but not ready to rush.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you want quick answers or big decisions immediately.

Example:
Imran: “I think about you all the time. I like you.”
Fatima: “I’m touched by your confession. Can we take it one step at a time?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Of course, slow and steady is good.”

15. “I’m glad you told me. I need some time to figure things out.”

Story:
Arsalan confessed to Areeba over a voice note. Areeba cared but needed space to process.

When to Use:
Use when you’re emotionally unsure but want to handle it maturely.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you don’t plan to revisit the topic at all.

Example:
Arsalan: “I really like you. I couldn’t keep it to myself anymore.”
Areeba: “I’m glad you told me. I need some time to figure things out.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.”

16. “I’m really flattered. Let’s keep in touch and see where it goes.”

Story:
Haider opened up to Ayesha after seeing each other often at work. Ayesha wasn’t sure but open to the idea.

When to Use:
Use when you’re willing to stay in contact and let things develop naturally.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not interested in future possibilities.

Example:
Haider: “I enjoy talking to you more than anyone.”
Ayesha: “I’m really flattered. Let’s keep in touch and see where it goes.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That sounds good to me. No pressure

17. “I appreciate your honesty. I’m not in a place for a relationship right now.”

Story:
Zohaib sent a heartfelt text to Sana late at night. She responded kindly but honestly about her situation.

When to Use:
Use when you have other priorities or aren’t ready for romance.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you feel the same way but are just scared—this might close the door.

Example:
Zohaib: “I’ve been meaning to tell you—I like you.”
Sana: “I appreciate your honesty. I’m not in a place for a relationship right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I understand. Thanks for being clear.”

18. “Thank you for sharing this. I’m focused on other priorities at the moment.”

Story:
Maha got a kind message from Junaid expressing how he felt. Maha was polite but set boundaries about her focus.

When to Use:
Use when school, work, or personal growth is your main focus.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re saying this just to delay an answer.

Example:
Junaid: “I wanted to let you know how I feel.”
Maha: “Thank you for sharing this. I’m focused on other priorities at the moment.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Totally fair. Wishing you the best in everything.”

19. “I’m happy you told me how you feel. Let’s stay friends for now.”

Story:
Iqbal opened up to Sana about his emotions. Sana felt grateful but wasn’t interested in dating him.

When to Use:
Use when you want to keep the friendship alive without making it awkward.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if the person has made it clear they can’t stay just friends.

Example:
Iqbal: “I’ve liked you for a long time now.”
Sana: “I’m happy you told me how you feel. Let’s stay friends for now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Sure, I’d still like us to hang out as friends.”

20. “Thanks for being honest. I’m still figuring out my own feelings.”

Story:
Rabia received a sincere message from Danish. She felt unsure but appreciated his courage.

When to Use:
Use when you’re uncertain and want more time before deciding anything.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you know your answer but don’t want to say it.

Example:
Danish: “I think I’m falling for you.”
Rabia: “Thanks for being honest. I’m still figuring out my own feelings.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Take your time. I’ll respect whatever you decide.”

21. “I’m really touched. Let’s get to know each other better first.”

Story:
Sumbal received a sweet voice message from Usman telling her he liked her. She was moved but wanted to take things slow.

When to Use:
Use when you’re open to the idea but want more time and connection.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’ve already decided you’re not interested at all.

Example:
Usman: “I really like you and had to tell you.”
Sumbal: “I’m really touched. Let’s get to know each other better first.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’d love that. Let’s keep things natural.”

22. “Thank you for telling me. I’m not looking for anything serious right now.”

Story:
Hassan surprised Alina with a sudden confession. Alina liked him as a person but didn’t want anything romantic.

When to Use:
Use when you want to be honest and kind about your current situation.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re unsure and just using it as an excuse.

Example:
Hassan: “I’ve had feelings for you for a while now.”
Alina: “Thank you for telling me. I’m not looking for anything serious right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I appreciate your honesty. Let’s stay in touch.”

23. “I’m glad you shared this. Let’s see how things go between us.”

Story:
Zoya got a gentle confession from Waleed during a long phone call. She liked him but wanted to stay relaxed and explore naturally.

When to Use:
Use when you’re interested but don’t want to rush into anything.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not interested and don’t want to give false hope.

Example:
Waleed: “I really like you, Zoya.”
Zoya: “I’m glad you shared this. Let’s see how things go between us.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That sounds perfect. No pressure either way.”

24. “Thank you for being honest. I think we should talk more about this.”

Story:
Laiba heard from Adeel, a close friend, who confessed his feelings. She didn’t want to brush it off and suggested a deeper talk.

When to Use:
Use when you care about the person and want clarity through conversation.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not willing to engage in a deeper conversation at all.

Example:
Adeel: “I really like you. It’s been on my heart for a while.”
Laiba: “Thank you for being honest. I think we should talk more about this.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’d like that. Let’s chat when we’re both free.”

25. “I appreciate your feelings. Let’s take some time to get to know each other.”

Story:
Shayan and Mahnoor had been chatting for weeks when he shared his emotions. Mahnoor responded thoughtfully, focusing on building a real bond.

When to Use:
Use when you want to take the connection slowly and mindfully.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you already know you’re not open to exploring things further.

Example:
Shayan: “I think I’ve started to like you.”
Mahnoor: “I appreciate your feelings. Let’s take some time to get to know each other.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That works for me. Let’s enjoy this naturally.”

26. “Thank you for sharing. I’m currently focused on personal growth.”

Story:
Iqra received a lovely confession from Ali, but she was prioritizing her healing and goals at the moment.

When to Use:
Use when you’re not emotionally available and need to focus on yourself.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re actually interested but afraid to admit it.

Example:
Ali: “I really care about you, and I like you.”
Iqra: “Thank you for sharing. I’m currently focused on personal growth.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I respect that. Wishing you strength and clarity.”

See also: “Polite and Clever Ways to Respond to ‘Amen’”

27. “I’m touched by your feelings. Can we just enjoy our time together?”

Story:
Sami expressed interest in Hina, but she wasn’t ready for labels. She gently suggested they continue spending time together naturally.

When to Use:
Use when you enjoy the person but want to keep things casual.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you want to distance yourself emotionally.

Example:
Sami: “I think I’ve caught feelings for you.”
Hina: “I’m touched by your feelings. Can we just enjoy our time together?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Of course, let’s see how things unfold.”

28. “Thank you for your honesty. I’m not sure how I feel about this.”

Story:
Mehwish was surprised when Salman admitted his feelings after months of silence. She needed space to sort her thoughts.

When to Use:
Use when you’re confused and need time to reflect honestly.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re sure about your answer but trying to delay.

Example:
Salman: “I’ve liked you for quite some time now.”
Mehwish: “Thank you for your honesty. I’m not sure how I feel about this.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Take your time. No pressure at all.”

29. “I’m glad you shared this with me. Let’s take things one step at a time.”

Story:
Areeb sent a heartfelt message to Anam. She was kind and open, but didn’t want to move too quickly.

When to Use:
Use when you feel a connection but want to avoid rushing anything.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you already know you’re not interested.

Example:
Areeb: “I’ve really fallen for you.”
Anam: “I’m glad you shared this with me. Let’s take things one step at a time.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Sounds good. Let’s enjoy the moment.”

30. “I appreciate your feelings. I need some time to figure things out.”

Story:
Saba received a bold confession from Daniyal during a quiet walk. She felt unsure and kindly asked for time.

When to Use:
Use when you’re uncertain but want to respond respectfully.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re simply trying to avoid answering forever.

Example:
Daniyal: “I think I’ve developed real feelings for you.”
Saba: “I appreciate your feelings. I need some time to figure things out.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Take all the time you need. I’ll be here.”

31. “That means a lot. Let’s talk more and see where it leads.”

Story:
Zoha told Maria how he felt after months of chatting online. Maria wasn’t sure yet, but she didn’t want to dismiss the connection.

When to Use:
Use when you’re open to talking more and seeing how the bond grows.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re not really interested and don’t want to give false hope.

Example:
Zoha: “I really like you, and I’ve felt this way for a while.”
Maria: “That means a lot. Let’s talk more and see where it leads.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Sounds good. I’d like to keep things open.”

32. “I respect your courage. I’m not ready for a relationship.”

Story:
Hamna received a sweet voice note from Kashif expressing his interest. She appreciated his honesty but wasn’t emotionally ready.

When to Use:
Use when you’re not in a place to start anything new but still respect their effort.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re actually interested but unsure how to express it.

Example:
Kashif: “I like you and just had to say it.”
Hamna: “I respect your courage. I’m not ready for a relationship.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thanks for being real. I get where you’re coming from.”

33. “Let’s not rush into anything. I’d like to enjoy our connection.”

Story:
Nida and Bilal had been close friends, and one day he confessed his feelings. Nida wasn’t against the idea but wanted to keep things light.

When to Use:
Use when you prefer to move slow and enjoy the bond without pressure.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’ve already made a decision to move forward seriously or not at all.

Example:
Bilal: “I’ve developed feelings for you, Nida.”
Nida: “Let’s not rush into anything. I’d like to enjoy our connection.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“That sounds perfect. Let’s just be present.”

34. “I hear you, and I want to be honest too.”

Story:
Areeba confessed to Faizan during a late-night call. Faizan appreciated it and wanted to be just as open.

When to Use:
Use when someone opens up and you feel safe enough to be emotionally honest in return.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re unsure and not ready to share your own feelings yet.

Example:
Areeba: “I really like you.”
Faizan: “I hear you, and I want to be honest too.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Okay, let’s be real with each other.”

35. “This means a lot. Let’s figure it out together.”

Story:
Yusra confessed her feelings to Rehan, who had sensed something but wasn’t sure how to respond until now. He welcomed the openness.

When to Use:
Use when there’s mutual respect and curiosity, even if you’re unsure what happens next.

When Not to Use:
Avoid if you’re trying to avoid commitment completely.

Example:
Yusra: “I’ve really come to like you, Rehan.”
Rehan: “This means a lot. Let’s figure it out together.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’d like that. Let’s take it step by step.”

Top Editor’s Choice Responses

• “I like you too—this just made my day.”
  
• “That’s sweet of you to say, thank you!”
  
• “You’ve got great timing—I’ve been feeling the same.”
  
• “Wow, I didn’t expect that, but I’m flattered!”
  
• “Thanks for being honest—it means a lot.”
  
• “You just surprised me in the best way!”
  
• “I’ve always enjoyed being around you too.”
  
• “You’ve got my attention now, for sure.”
  
• “I really admire your confidence.”
  
• “Let’s see where this connection takes us.”
  
• “That’s bold—and honestly, kinda cute.”
  
• “I’ve been waiting for you to say that.”
  
• “You’re amazing too, and I’m glad you told me.”
  
• “That’s a sweet confession—thanks for sharing it.”
  
• “Let’s talk more and see where this goes.”

Conclusion

When someone tells you they like you, it’s a special moment no matter how you feel about them. Your words can make a big difference. When you feel the same, need more time, or don’t return the feelings, the way you respond should be kind, clear, and true to your heart.

Remember, you don’t have to rush or say what you don’t mean. Being honest while respecting the other person’s feelings is always the right move.

In the end, the best way to respond when someone likes you is with a mix of care, confidence, and honesty. Let your reply reflect who you are and let it build trust, not tension.