“Responses When Someone Likes You Smart & Heartfelt Replies”

“When someone says they like you, the best response can open the door to something special  or shut it kindly.”

Hey there! I’m really glad you’re here, because today we’re talking about something real and personal and how to respond when someone tells you they like you. It’s a moment that can feel exciting, a little awkward, or even a bit confusing. I’ve been there too, and I know how important it is to say the right thing without sounding cold or fake.

Whether you feel the same way or not, knowing how to answer with kindness, honesty, and confidence is a great skill. You don’t have to be a smooth talker or a relationship expert — you just need the right words and a little guidance.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the best responses when someone says they like you. When you like them back or not, you’ll find easy, real-life phrases that work in almost any situation. Let’s get into it!

1. “I’m really flattered that you like me!” 😊

Story:
Emma and Jake have been hanging out a lot lately. One evening, Jake opens up and tells Emma he has feelings for her. Emma didn’t expect it, and she needs a moment to process it.

When to Use:
Use this when someone confesses their feelings to you, and you appreciate their honesty but don’t feel ready to give a clear answer yet.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you’re certain you don’t return their feelings or want to end any romantic tension quickly.

Example:
Jake: “I think I’ve started to really like you.”
Emma: “I’m really flattered that you like me!”

How to Respond 🗣️
You can say something like, “Thank you for being honest” or “That means a lot to me, I wasn’t expecting that.”

2. “That’s sweet of you to say!” 💖

Story:
Liam gives Sophia a compliment, saying he has a crush on her. Sophia feels appreciative but wants to keep things light and friendly.

When to Use:
Use this when someone compliments you or shares feelings and you want to acknowledge it kindly without leading them on.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if the other person expects a serious or emotional response and you’re in a deeper situation.

Example:
Liam: “I think you’re amazing. I really like you.”
Sophia: “That’s sweet of you to say!”

How to Respond 🗣️
Try saying, “You’re kind” or “Thanks, that made me smile” to keep things warm but respectful.

3. “I’m glad you feel that way, but I’m not sure where I stand.” 🤔

Story:
Noah confesses to Lily that he has liked her for a while. Lily is surprised and unsure how she feels.

When to Use:
Use this when you’re uncertain about your feelings and don’t want to give false hope or say something you’ll regret.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you already know your answer and just want to be honest and clear.

Example:
Noah: “I’ve had a crush on you for months.”
Lily: “I’m glad you feel that way, but I’m not sure where I stand.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say something like, “I need time to think about this” or “Can we talk more later after I figure things out?”

4. “I’ve really enjoyed our time together too!” 🕒

Story:
Ethan and Ava have been spending more time together. Ethan tells her how much he likes her, and Ava wants to stay positive while keeping things open.

When to Use:
Use this when you appreciate someone’s company and want to show warmth without confirming romantic feelings.

When Not to Use:
Avoid it if the person needs a more direct answer about where you stand.

Example:
Ethan: “I love hanging out with you, and I think I like you.”
Ava: “I’ve really enjoyed our time together too!”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say, “I’ve had a great time too” or “It’s been fun getting to know you better.”

5. “I like you as a friend, and I hope that’s okay.” 👫

Story:
Olivia and Daniel have been close friends for a while. One day, Daniel admits his feelings. Olivia wants to be honest without hurting him.

When to Use:
Use this when you value your friendship but don’t have romantic feelings for the person.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you feel the friendship might turn uncomfortable or if the other person is very emotional and needs time alone.

Example:
Daniel: “I’ve started falling for you.”
Olivia: “I like you as a friend, and I hope that’s okay.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say something like, “Our friendship means a lot to me” or “I don’t want to lose what we have.”

6. “I’m flattered, but I think we should take things slow.” 🐢

Story:
Lucas shares his feelings with Mia after a few weeks of talking. Mia is interested but wants to build the bond gradually.

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

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you’re not interested at all, as it may send mixed signals.

Example:
Lucas: “I like you a lot and want to be more than friends.”
Mia: “I’m flattered, but I think we should take things slow.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Try saying, “Let’s get to know each other more” or “I think it’s better to take one step at a time.”

7. “That’s a surprise! I need some time to think about this.” ⏳

Story:
Zoe is caught off guard when Henry suddenly confesses he has feelings for her. She didn’t see it coming.

When to Use:
Use this when a confession catches you off guard and you need time to process your thoughts.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you already know the answer and don’t want to drag it out.

Example:
Henry: “I’ve liked you for a while.”
Zoe: “That’s a surprise! I need some time to think about this.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say, “I appreciate your honesty” or “Can we talk again soon after I think this through?”

8. “I think you’re great, but I don’t feel the same way.” 💔

Story:
Chloe and Ryan have been chatting often. Ryan expresses his feelings, but Chloe wants to be honest and kind.

When to Use:
Use this when you want to be clear that you don’t return the same feelings but still respect the person.

When Not to Use:
Avoid it if you’re unsure or want to keep the connection open.

Example:
Ryan: “I really like you.”
Chloe: “I think you’re great, but I don’t feel the same way.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say, “I hope we can still be cool with each other” or “I’m grateful you shared that.”

9. “I’m really touched by what you said, but I’m not ready for a relationship right now.” 🚫

Story:
Lily and Max have been close for months. Max decides to open up about his feelings. Lily cares about him but isn’t in a place to date.

When to Use:
Use this when you like the person but aren’t emotionally or mentally ready for a relationship.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if you know you’ll never want a relationship with that person and don’t want to give false hope.

Example:
Max: “I think we should be more than friends.”
Lily: “I’m really touched by what you said, but I’m not ready for a relationship right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say, “You matter to me, but I need time for myself” or “This means a lot, and I hope you understand.”

10. “I value our friendship a lot, and I hope this doesn’t change things.” 🌟

Story:
Nathan and Grace have always been good friends. Nathan reveals his feelings, and Grace wants to keep the friendship strong.

When to Use:
Use this when someone you care about as a friend confesses their feelings, and you don’t want to lose the bond.

When Not to Use:
Avoid this if the other person needs space or if emotions are too high at the moment.

Example:
Nathan: “I’ve been falling for you.”
Grace: “I value our friendship a lot, and I hope this doesn’t change things.”

How to Respond 🗣️
Say, “Let’s keep things steady between us” or “I don’t want this to make things weird.”

11. “I’m happy you told me how you feel, but I need to focus on myself right now.” 💪

Story
Emma recently got out of a tough relationship. When Jake shared his feelings, she appreciated his honesty but felt the timing wasn’t right.

When to Use
Use this when you’re working on personal goals or healing and can’t commit emotionally.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you’re actually open to dating but just unsure—clarity is better.

Example
Jake: “I like you more than just a friend.”
Emma: “I’m happy you told me how you feel, but I need to focus on myself right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I’m here for you as a friend, but I need this time to grow on my own.”

12. “Thank you for sharing your feelings with me. Can we talk about this more later?” 🗨️

Story
Liam confessed his feelings to Ava while she was in a stressful work week. She didn’t want to rush her response.

When to Use
Use this if you want time to think or wait for a better moment to have a meaningful talk.

When Not to Use
Avoid this if you plan to never revisit the topic—it may come off as dismissive.

Example
Liam: “I really like you, Ava.”
Ava: “Thank you for sharing your feelings with me. Can we talk about this more later?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I respect your honesty. Let’s chat soon when I can give it my full attention.”

See also: Warm and Heartfelt Replies to Happy New Year Wishes

13. “I’m flattered, but I think we should get to know each other better first.” 📅

Story
Ethan met Mia on a few group outings. He expressed interest, but she felt they barely knew each other.

When to Use
Say this when you’re open to the idea of something more but want to build trust first.

When Not to Use
Don’t use it if you’re not interested at all—it may give false hope.

Example
Ethan: “I’ve really started to like you, Mia.”
Mia: “I’m flattered, but I think we should get to know each other better first.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Let’s spend more time together and see where things go naturally.”

14. “I’m happy you feel this way, but I think we’re better off as friends.” 👯

Story
Noah told Olivia he had a crush on her. She cared about him but didn’t feel romantic chemistry.

When to Use
Use this when you truly value the friendship and don’t want to mislead them.

When Not to Use
Avoid using this if you’re unsure—be confident about your decision.

Example
Noah: “I really like you, Olivia.”
Olivia: “I’m happy you feel this way, but I think we’re better off as friends.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I care about our bond and want to keep it strong as friends.”

15. “You’re a great person, but I don’t think we’re a match romantically.” 💡

Story
Sophia enjoyed spending time with Dylan, but she didn’t feel a deeper connection.

When to Use
This fits when you appreciate someone but don’t see a romantic future.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you’re uncertain—it’s better to be honest or wait until you’re sure.

Example
Dylan: “I’ve liked you for a while, Sophia.”
Sophia: “You’re a great person, but I don’t think we’re a match romantically.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I hope you understand. I truly wish you the best.”

16. “I’m touched that you like me, but I’m currently focused on other things.” 🔍

Story
Isaac admitted his feelings to Grace, but she was busy with her studies and career goals.

When to Use
Say this when you’re overwhelmed or your priorities are elsewhere for now.

When Not to Use
Avoid this if you’re just trying to let someone down gently without real intention.

Example
Isaac: “I’ve developed feelings for you, Grace.”
Grace: “I’m touched that you like me, but I’m currently focused on other things.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I respect your courage. I just need to stay focused right now.”

17. “Thank you for being so open with me. Let’s take our time and see how things develop.” ⏲️

Story
Lily appreciated the way Ryan expressed his emotions but wasn’t ready to rush into anything.

When to Use
Use this if you’re interested but want a slow and natural pace.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you already know the answer is a no.

Example
Ryan: “I’ve been falling for you, Lily.”
Lily: “Thank you for being so open with me. Let’s take our time and see how things develop.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Let’s enjoy the moment and let things grow if they’re meant to.”

18. “I’m glad you shared your feelings. Let’s talk about what we both want moving forward.” 🗣️

Story
Jackson finally told Harper about his interest in her, and she felt it deserved a mature conversation.

When to Use
This is perfect when you want open communication and clarity from both sides.

When Not to Use
Avoid it if you already made your decision and don’t want further discussion.

Example
Jackson: “I like you more than just a friend, Harper.”
Harper: “I’m glad you shared your feelings. Let’s talk about what we both want moving forward.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I think it’s good to be honest. Let’s have a real talk about this soon.”

19. “I’m honored that you like me, but I don’t feel the same way.” 🏅

Story
Chloe appreciated Logan’s bravery in confessing, but her feelings didn’t match his.

When to Use
Use this when you want to be honest and respectful about not reciprocating feelings.

When Not to Use
Avoid this if you’re unsure or trying to spare feelings with vague answers.

Example
Logan: “I’ve had feelings for you for a while, Chloe.”
Chloe: “I’m honored that you like me, but I don’t feel the same way.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I respect you so much and hope this won’t affect our respect for each other.”

20. “I’m really touched, but I think we should stay friends for now.” 🤗

Story
Henry opened up to Natalie after months of friendship. She didn’t want to lose the friendship, even though she didn’t feel the same.

When to Use
Say this when you want to keep the friendship strong but aren’t ready for more.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you have feelings too—be honest and express them.

Example
Henry: “I think I like you more than just a friend, Natalie.”
Natalie: “I’m really touched, but I think we should stay friends for now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I really care about our bond, and I hope we can keep that.”

21. “I’m grateful for your honesty. Let’s see how we both feel in the future.” 🔮

Story
Maya appreciated Aaron’s honesty about his feelings, but she wanted to keep things open for now.

When to Use
Use this when you’re not sure about your feelings but want to leave room to explore later.

When Not to Use
Avoid this if you want to clearly end things or if you don’t see a future.

Example
Aaron: “I like you a lot, Maya.”
Maya: “I’m grateful for your honesty. Let’s see how we both feel in the future.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I appreciate your openness. Let’s keep things easy and check in with each other.”

22. “I’m flattered by your feelings, but I need to focus on my own personal growth right now.” 🌱

Story
Nathan admired Zoe’s courage to express herself, but he was on a journey of self-improvement.

When to Use
Use this when you want to work on yourself before starting a relationship.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you want to avoid someone without explaining your real reasons.

Example
Zoe: “I have feelings for you, Nathan.”
Nathan: “I’m flattered by your feelings, but I need to focus on my own personal growth right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thanks for understanding. I want to be my best self first.”

23. “It means a lot to me that you like me, but I’m not ready for a relationship at this time.” 🚧

Story
Olivia was touched when Mark told her he liked her, but she wasn’t prepared for a relationship.

When to Use
Use this if you want to be honest about your timing without hurting feelings.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you plan to start something soon; this phrase signals a clear pause.

Example
Mark: “I like you, Olivia.”
Olivia: “It means a lot to me that you like me, but I’m not ready for a relationship at this time.”

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

24. “I’m touched by your words. Let’s take things one step at a time.” 🏞️

Story
Emma was moved when Ryan expressed his feelings, but she wanted to move slowly.

When to Use
Use this when you want to keep things slow and steady.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you want to clearly say yes or no quickly.

Example
Ryan: “I like you, Emma.”
Emma: “I’m touched by your words. Let’s take things one step at a time.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I agree. Let’s enjoy each moment as it comes.

25. “I’m happy you shared your feelings. I need a little more time to figure out my own.” 🧩

Story
Lucas appreciated when Mia shared her feelings but felt unsure himself.

When to Use
Use this when you want to be honest about needing more time.

When Not to Use
Avoid this if you don’t want to continue any possibility.

Example
Mia: “I like you, Lucas.”
Lucas: “I’m happy you shared your feelings. I need a little more time to figure out my own.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thanks for being honest. I’ll give you the space you need.”

26. “I’m glad you like me, but I don’t think we’re on the same page.” 📖

Story
Sophia liked Noah as a friend, but their feelings didn’t match.

When to Use
Use this when feelings differ and you want to clarify that.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you want to keep things vague or unclear.

Example
Noah: “I like you more than a friend, Sophia.”
Sophia: “I’m glad you like me, but I don’t think we’re on the same page.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I understand. I appreciate your honesty.”

27. “Thank you for your kind words. I think we should talk more to see where this goes.” 💬

Story
Ethan liked Lily’s honesty and wanted to explore what could happen between them.

When to Use
Use this when you’re interested and want to communicate openly.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you don’t want to continue or feel unsure.

Example
Lily: “I like you, Ethan.”
Ethan: “Thank you for your kind words. I think we should talk more to see where this goes.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Sounds good. I’m open to talking and seeing what happens.”

28. “It’s really nice to hear that. I think we should just enjoy getting to know each other.” 🎉

Story
Zara felt happy when Matt shared his feelings, but she wanted to keep it light.

When to Use
Use this when you want to stay relaxed and not rush anything.

When Not to Use
Don’t use this if you want to avoid or reject someone.

Example
Matt: “I like you, Zara.”
Zara: “It’s really nice to hear that. I think we should just enjoy getting to know each other.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I like that idea. Let’s take it easy.”

See also: When Being Called “Trouble” Becomes a Compliment in Disguise

29. “I’m flattered and appreciate your feelings. Can we take some time to figure this out?” 🕰️

Story
Owen was kind when Chloe told him her feelings, but he wanted to process it carefully.

When to Use
Use this when you want space to think without shutting down the conversation.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you don’t want to continue or have no interest.

Example
Chloe: “I like you, Owen.”
Owen: “I’m flattered and appreciate your feelings. Can we take some time to figure this out?”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Of course, take all the time you need.”

30. “I’m really glad you feel this way, but I’m not in a place to start something new right now.” 🛠️

Story
Grace was touched by Liam’s feelings but had too many things going on in life.

When to Use
Use this when life feels overwhelming and you can’t add a relationship.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you want to lead someone on or are unsure.

Example
Liam: “I like you, Grace.”
Grace: “I’m really glad you feel this way, but I’m not in a place to start something new right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I appreciate your honesty. I want the best for you.”

31. “I appreciate your feelings, but I want to be honest about where I stand.” 🗝️

Story
Jenna admired how honest Kyle was when he shared his feelings, and she wanted to return that honesty.

When to Use
Use this when you want to be clear and honest about your own feelings without hurting the other person.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you’re unsure about your feelings or want to keep things vague.

Example
Kyle: “I really like you, Jenna.”
Jenna: “I appreciate your feelings, but I want to be honest about where I stand.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thank you for being honest. I respect that a lot.”

32. “Your feelings mean a lot to me, but I think we need some space right now.” 🌌

Story
Lucas cared about Anna’s feelings but felt that they both needed time apart to think clearly.

When to Use
Use this when you value the person but feel space will help both of you.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you want to keep things moving forward or don’t want to risk distance.

Example
Anna: “I like you, Lucas.”
Lucas: “Your feelings mean a lot to me, but I think we need some space right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I understand. Taking space can be good sometimes.”

33. “I’m happy you shared your feelings. Let’s keep being honest and see where this leads.” 🔗

Story
Mia felt comforted when Noah expressed his feelings and wanted to encourage open communication.

When to Use
Use this when you want to keep communication open and honest.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you want to avoid deeper conversations or reject someone gently.

Example
Noah: “I really like you, Mia.”
Mia: “I’m happy you shared your feelings. Let’s keep being honest and see where this leads.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I agree. Honesty is the best way.”

34. “I appreciate how you feel, but I want to focus on my goals right now.” 🎯

Story
Ethan admired Ava’s courage but was currently focused on his career and personal goals.

When to Use
Use this when your priorities don’t allow time for a relationship.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you’re interested but unsure; be clear about your priorities.

Example
Ava: “I like you, Ethan.”
Ethan: “I appreciate how you feel, but I want to focus on my goals right now.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“Thanks for being open. I hope you achieve everything you want.”

35. “Thank you for being honest. I want to keep things respectful and clear between us.” 🤝

Story
Sophie respected Jack’s honesty and wanted to maintain a respectful relationship, no matter what.

When to Use
Use this when you want to maintain respect and clarity in your interactions.

When Not to Use
Avoid if you want to avoid any kind of confrontation or directness.

Example
Jack: “I like you, Sophie.”
Sophie: “Thank you for being honest. I want to keep things respectful and clear between us.”

How to Respond 🗣️
“I appreciate that a lot. Respect is important.”

Top Editor’s Choice Responses When Someone Says They Like You

• Thank you that means a lot to me
  
• I’m really glad you told me
  
• I like spending time with you too
  
• That’s so sweet of you to say
  
• I feel the same way about you
  
• I appreciate your honesty
  
• I’ve enjoyed getting to know you better
  
• You’re a great person
  
• I’m happy to hear that
  
• Let’s take things one step at a time
  
• I’m flattered thank you
  
• I’m glad we’re friends
  
• I need some time to think about this
  
• I really like you too let’s see where this goes
  
• You made my day with that
  
• Thanks for being so open with me
  
• I want to be honest with you about my feelings
  
• I respect your feelings a lot
  
• I’m glad you trust me enough to share this
  
• I think we should get to know each other more

Conclusion

When someone shares their feelings and says they like you, it’s important to respond in a way that respects both your emotions and theirs. Choosing the right words can help keep the conversation honest and kind, whether you feel the same or need more time to understand your own feelings.

The responses in this list offer simple and thoughtful ways to express appreciation, show care, or gently set boundaries without hurting anyone. Being clear and genuine helps build trust and keeps your connection strong, no matter what direction it takes.

Remember, it’s okay to take your time or to explain your feelings honestly. Communication is key to any relationship, whether it’s friendship or something more.

Use these responses as a guide to reply with warmth and respect, making sure both you and the other person feel heard and valued. This approach creates a positive and comfortable space for honest conversations.