“Being single isn’t a curse it’s a chapter, not the whole story.”
Hey, I’m here with you and if you’ve ever been called single like it’s something bad, trust me, you’re not alone. Sometimes people throw that word like it’s an insult, but guess what? You can turn that label into a moment of fun, confidence, or even a clever comeback.
I know how it feels when someone casually says, “Oh, you’re still single?” It can be awkward, annoying, or just plain unnecessary. But instead of feeling down, what if you had a smart or funny reply ready to go? That’s where this article steps in to help you respond in style.
In this article, you’ll find clever ways to respond to being called single from witty to graceful, and everything in between. When you want to make them laugh or leave them speechless, we’ve got you covered with simple, real, and creative responses.
1. “Yes, I am!”
Story: Sarah and Liam are chatting at a party when he casually asks, “Are you single?” Sarah smiles and replies confidently.
When to Use: Use this when you’re open about your relationship status and don’t mind sharing.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if you’re unsure about the person’s intentions or feel uncomfortable.
Example: Liam: “Are you single?” Sarah: “Yes, I am!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it simply with a smile and keep the conversation going naturally.
2. “No, I’m not.”
Story: Mark meets Priya at a coffee shop. He seems interested and asks about her status.
When to Use: Use this when you’re in a relationship and want to set clear boundaries.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it to shut someone down harshly. Be kind.
Example: Mark: “Are you single?” Priya: “No, I’m not.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep your tone polite and respectful. A clear no is enough.
3. “I’m in a relationship.”
Story: Jason and Emily start talking during a group hangout. He subtly flirts.
When to Use: When you’re taken and want to gently let them know.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if you feel pressured or uncomfortable saying it.
Example: Jason: “Are you single?” Emily: “I’m in a relationship.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it naturally and with a friendly tone. No need to over-explain.
4. “Why do you ask?”
Story: Rachel is catching up with Ben, and he suddenly asks if she’s single.
When to Use: Use when you’re curious about their reason or not ready to answer directly.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if it may come off as defensive in a formal setting.
Example: Ben: “Are you single?” Rachel: “Why do you ask?”
How to Respond 🗣️ Ask with a light tone and a smile. Keep it playful or thoughtful.
5. “That’s a good question. Why do you want to know?”
Story: Alex and Nora meet through friends. He throws the question unexpectedly.
When to Use: Use this if you want to explore their motive in a fun way.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it in serious or formal conversations.
Example: Alex: “Are you single?” Nora: “That’s a good question. Why do you want to know?”
How to Respond 🗣️ Show interest and curiosity in your tone. It invites more conversation.
6. “I’m currently single, yes.”
Story: Jamie and Aria meet at a networking event and connect quickly.
When to Use: Best when you’re honest but still keeping things cool.
When Not to Use: Avoid in situations where personal info feels too early to share.
Example: Aria: “Are you single?” Jamie: “I’m currently single, yes.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it neutral and relaxed. No need to overthink it.
7. “Why do you ask? Are you interested?”
Story: A flirty exchange happens between Ella and David over lunch.
When to Use: Use this when you want to be cheeky and direct.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the question feels serious or professional.
Example: David: “Are you single?” Ella: “Why do you ask? Are you interested?”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it with a smile and confidence. It keeps things fun.
8. “I am, but I’m focusing on other things right now.”
Story: Noah chats with Lily at the gym. He asks about her status.
When to Use: Best when you’re not actively looking for a relationship.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you want to explore a new connection.
Example: Noah: “Are you single?” Lily: “I am, but I’m focusing on other things right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be polite and direct. Let your priorities show confidently.
9. “Yes, but I’m not actively dating.”
Story: Mia and Ethan bump into each other at a bookstore. Small talk begins.
When to Use: When you’re single but not open to dating.
When Not to Use: Don’t say this if you’re open to meeting someone new.
Example: Ethan: “Are you single?” Mia: “Yes, but I’m not actively dating.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it calm and respectful. No pressure tone needed.
10. “Yes, I am. Why do you ask?”
Story: Daniel and Zoe are texting when he pops the question.
When to Use: Perfect when you’re open and want to hear their reason.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you feel it’s too personal or intrusive.
Example: Zoe: “Are you single?” Daniel: “Yes, I am. Why do you ask?”
How to Respond 🗣️ Ask calmly with curiosity. It opens more room to talk.
11. “I am, but let’s talk about something else.”
Story: Chloe and Ryan are on a hike. He asks casually.
When to Use: Great when you don’t want to dive into relationship talks.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if the person genuinely wants to get to know you.
Example: Ryan: “Are you single?” Chloe: “I am, but let’s talk about something else.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it light. Change the topic with kindness.
12. “Yes, I’m single. What about you?”
Story: Oliver and Ava meet at a gallery. He’s curious about her status.
When to Use: Use this when you want to return the interest.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if you’re not interested in their answer.
Example: Oliver: “Are you single?” Ava: “Yes, I’m single. What about you?”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it friendly and open-ended. It builds connection.
13. “I’m single at the moment, but I’m enjoying it!”
Story: Henry and Julia are in line at a café chatting.
When to Use: Use this when you’re happy with your current solo phase.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re actively looking to date soon.
Example: Henry: “Are you single?” Julia: “I’m single at the moment, but I’m enjoying it!”
How to Respond 🗣️ Show joy in your tone. Keep it positive and light.
14. “Yes, and I’m focusing on myself right now.”
Story: Marcus and Leila are catching up at a friend’s barbecue.
When to Use: When you’re on a self-growth journey and want to express that.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re considering dating the person who asked.
Example: Marcus: “Are you single?” Leila: “Yes, and I’m focusing on myself right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak with confidence and honesty. Let it reflect your priorities.
15. “Yes, but I’m open to meeting new people.”
Story: Nathan meets Zoe at a weekend workshop. They connect quickly.
When to Use: Use this if you’re single and open to possibilities.
When Not to Use: Don’t say it if you’re not looking to date.
Example: Zoe: “Are you single?” Nathan: “Yes, but I’m open to meeting new people.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be warm and inviting. It signals interest without rushing.
16. “Yes, I am, but I’m taking things slow.”
Story: Isla and Kevin are chatting at a local event. The topic turns personal.
When to Use: Use this when you want to take time before committing.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re ready for serious dating right away.
Example: Kevin: “Are you single?” Isla: “Yes, I am, but I’m taking things slow.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak calmly and gently. It shows you’re thoughtful.
17. “Yes, but I’m enjoying my independence.”
Story: Lily and Adrian are discussing weekend plans. Adrian brings up dating.
When to Use: When you want to express self-contentment.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re seeking emotional connection soon.
Example: Adrian: “Are you single?” Lily: “Yes, but I’m enjoying my independence.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it with confidence. Celebrate your solo journey.
18. “Yes, and I’m quite busy these days.”
Story: Sophie and Max are discussing work and life schedules. Max gets curious.
When to Use: When you’re focused on work or personal goals.
When Not to Use: Don’t use this if you’re trying to start a new relationship.
Example: Max: “Are you single?” Sophie: “Yes, and I’m quite busy these days.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it light. Let them know your plate is full for now.
19. “I am, but I’m not looking for a relationship at the moment.”
Story: Ian and Grace reconnect online. He tries to hint at more.
When to Use: Best when you want to gently close the door.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re open to a casual friendship or chat.
Example: Ian: “Are you single?” Grace: “I am, but I’m not looking for a relationship at the moment.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be clear and respectful. It helps avoid confusion.
20. “Yes, and I’m enjoying meeting new people.”
Story: Callum meets Layla at a language class. They start getting friendly.
When to Use: Use this when you’re in a light, exploring phase.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if you want to avoid dating.
Example: Layla: “Are you single?” Callum: “Yes, and I’m enjoying meeting new people.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be cheerful and open. It shows you’re curious and sociable.
See also: Best Replies to “Can I Know You Better?” Flirty & Fun
21. “Yes, but I’m not actively dating anyone right now.”
Story: Ava and Daniel met at a weekend art class. While talking during a break, Daniel asked if she was single.
When to Use: Great for moments when you want to show honesty but aren’t currently exploring romantic options.
When Not to Use: Avoid this if you’re open to dating soon and don’t want to seem distant.
Example: Daniel: “Are you single?” Ava: “Yes, but I’m not actively dating anyone right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak with clarity and warmth. Let the other person know your focus is elsewhere right now.
22. “I am, but I’m not sure if I’m ready for a relationship.”
Story: Ethan and Chloe were reconnecting after years apart. When things got personal, Ethan asked her about her love life.
When to Use: Best for situations where you’re still healing or figuring things out emotionally.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you want to keep the conversation light or not dive into deeper emotional topics.
Example: Ethan: “Are you single?” Chloe: “I am, but I’m not sure if I’m ready for a relationship.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be open and honest. It’s okay to not have it all figured out.
23. “Yes, but I’m enjoying my time with friends and family.”
Story: Grace and Ayaan were seated together at a wedding. Their chat turned personal quickly.
When to Use: Ideal when you want to share that you’re single but prioritizing meaningful time with loved ones.
When Not to Use: Don’t use this if you’re interested in dating the person asking.
Example: Ayaan: “Are you single?” Grace: “Yes, but I’m enjoying my time with friends and family.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it cheerfully. It shows that you’re content and focused on people who matter.
24. “Yes, and I’m happy with my current situation.”
Story: David ran into Sophia at a local bookstore. They caught up and he asked about her relationship status.
When to Use: Perfect when you’re at peace with being single and want to express that.
When Not to Use: Don’t say this if you’re feeling lonely and it might sound forced.
Example: David: “Are you single?” Sophia: “Yes, and I’m happy with my current situation.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak positively and with a smile. It shows self-assurance.
25. “I am, but I’m taking it one step at a time.”
Story: Rachel and Ben were discussing their lives over coffee. Ben casually brought up relationships.
When to Use: Good when you’re open to possibilities but not rushing into anything.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re actually ready and hoping to start something soon.
Example: Ben: “Are you single?” Rachel: “I am, but I’m taking it one step at a time.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it calm and thoughtful. It shows that you’re moving with care.
26. “Yes, but I’m not looking to date right now.”
Story: Sarah met Ryan at a volunteering event. While chatting, Ryan brought up dating.
When to Use: Use this when you want to gently let someone know that you’re not pursuing romance.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if you are curious about dating the person.
Example: Ryan: “Are you single?” Sarah: “Yes, but I’m not looking to date right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it kindly. This keeps the message honest without sounding cold.
27. “Yes, and I’m focusing on my personal goals.”
Story: Priya and Mark met through a career networking group. He seemed interested in more than business.
When to Use: Best for when your energy is going into work, school, or self-growth.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if your focus is shifting and you’re thinking about dating again.
Example: Mark: “Are you single?” Priya: “Yes, and I’m focusing on my personal goals.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Stay confident. It reflects a clear mindset and ambition.
28. “Yes, but I’m really enjoying my independence.”
Story: Jacob and Layla were out hiking with mutual friends. During a break, Layla asked Jacob about his relationship status.
When to Use: Use this when you’re proud of doing life on your own terms.
When Not to Use: Skip this if you’re hoping the person will make a move.
Example: Layla: “Are you single?” Jacob: “Yes, but I’m really enjoying my independence.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak with pride and ease. Let them know your freedom makes you happy.
29. “Yes, but I’m not currently looking to date.”
Story: Aria and Noah were having lunch after a workshop. The topic turned to relationships.
When to Use: Perfect when you want to be respectful but honest about where you are.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re thinking of changing that soon.
Example: Noah: “Are you single?” Aria: “Yes, but I’m not currently looking to date.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Use a friendly tone. It helps keep things from getting awkward.
30. “Yes, and I’m focusing on enjoying life right now.”
Story: Leo bumped into Zara at a beach picnic. As they chatted, he asked about her dating life.
When to Use: Ideal for when you’re prioritizing fun, travel, or just living fully.
When Not to Use: Don’t use it if you’re hoping someone might change your mind quickly.
Example: Leo: “Are you single?” Zara: “Yes, and I’m focusing on enjoying life right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak joyfully. It reflects that you’re living life on your own terms.
31. “I’m single and focusing on myself these days.”
Story: Hannah and Omar were catching up over coffee. When he asked if she was dating, she smiled and gave a calm response.
When to Use: Perfect when you’re taking time to grow and understand yourself better.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re open to dating but just haven’t had the chance yet.
Example: Omar: “Are you single?” Hannah: “I’m single and focusing on myself these days.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Speak with confidence. It shows maturity and clarity.
32. “Yes, and I’m enjoying the freedom right now.”
Story: Adam and Nia were chatting during a group trip. She casually brought up the topic of relationships.
When to Use: Best for when you’re enjoying life on your own terms.
When Not to Use: Avoid if freedom feels forced or you’re hoping to date someone soon.
Example: Nia: “Are you single?” Adam: “Yes, and I’m enjoying the freedom right now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Say it with energy. Show that independence feels good.
33. “I’m single, but I’m taking a break from dating apps.”
Story: Nora and Zaid were talking at a friend’s barbecue. Dating came up, and she shared her thoughts.
When to Use: Great when you’re tired of online dating but still open to connections.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re actively looking to meet someone online again.
Example: Zaid: “Are you single?” Nora: “I’m single, but I’m taking a break from dating apps.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Keep it light. Let them know you’re taking a mindful pause.
34. “Yes, but I’m healing from a past relationship.”
Story: Aisha and Farhan met at a music event. Their conversation grew deeper, and he asked about her love life.
When to Use: Use this when you’re still processing a breakup or emotional chapter.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if you want to avoid deep or vulnerable topics.
Example: Farhan: “Are you single?” Aisha: “Yes, but I’m healing from a past relationship.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Be honest but gentle. It helps others understand your space.
35. “Yes, but I’m keeping things casual for now.”
Story: Julian met Amaya at a weekend workshop. She asked him directly about his dating life.
When to Use: Ideal if you’re open to light-hearted connections without pressure.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you’re secretly hoping for something serious.
Example: Amaya: “Are you single?” Julian: “Yes, but I’m keeping things casual for now.”
How to Respond 🗣️ Stay relaxed. Let them know you’re open but not rushing.
Top Editor Choice Responses
- “Single, not desperate—there’s a difference.”
- “Yep, and thriving more than ever.”
- “Better single than settling.”
- “My standards are high, not my hopes.”
- “I’m dating peace, and it’s going well.”
- “Single? More like selectively available.”
- “I’m not single, I’m in a relationship with freedom.”
- “Alone? No, just enjoying my own company.”
- “Happily taken… by my goals.”
- “Relationship status: upgrading myself.”
- “Not single—just on a vibe break.”
- “Single? I call it self-investment season.”
- “Too busy living to worry about labels.”
- “Single, because I haven’t lowered my standards.”
- “Freedom looks good on me, doesn’t it?”
- “Waiting for someone who adds peace, not problems.”
- “I’m focused on me—love can wait.”
- “Single life, but never lonely.”
- “My playlist is the only relationship I need.”
- “No partner, no pressure, no problem.”
Conclusion
Being single isn’t a flaw it’s a phase of power, peace, and personal growth. When you’re witty, bold, or chill about it, these clever comebacks can help you own your status with confidence and charm.
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.