Distinguishing between Flirting and Genuine Interest: 15 Telltale Signs

Flirting, a playful exchange of words and actions that hints at romantic interest, can be a fun and exciting way to connect with someone you find attractive. However, it can also be difficult to determine whether someone is truly interested in you or just flirting for fun.

While it’s natural to feel flattered when someone flirts with you, it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate whether they’re genuinely interested in pursuing a relationship or just enjoying the attention. Here are 15 telltale signs to help you tell the difference:

15 Signs of flirting or serious intentions:

Pay attention to his body language: Does he lean in towards you when you’re talking? Does he make eye contact and hold it? Does he touch your arm or shoulder casually? These are all signs that he’s interested in you and is trying to get closer to you.
Does he remember your interests and hobbies? A man who is genuinely interested in you will take the time to learn about your interests and hobbies. He will ask you questions about them and show genuine enthusiasm when you talk about them.
Does he go out of his way to spend time with you? If a man is interested in you, he will make an effort to see you even if he’s busy. He will suggest activities and make plans to spend time with you.
Does he compliment you? Compliments are a great way to show someone that you’re interested in them. But if a man is just flirting, his compliments may be generic and not very specific. A man who is genuinely interested in you will compliment you on your unique qualities and make you feel special.
Does he respect your boundaries? If a man is genuinely interested in you, he will respect your boundaries. He will not pressure you to do anything you’re not comfortable with, and he will not make you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Does he make plans for the future? If a man is genuinely interested in you, he will start to make plans for the future with you. He may talk about things you can do together in the future, or he may even start talking about making things official.
Does he introduce you to his friends and family? This is a big step, and it’s usually a sign that he’s serious about you. If he’s not ready to introduce you to his close circle, it’s a sign that he’s not that serious about you.
Does he make an effort to talk to you when you’re not around? If a man is genuinely interested in you, he will make an effort to talk to you even when you’re not together. He will text you, call you, or talk to you on social media.
Does he support your goals and dreams? A man who is genuinely interested in you will support your goals and dreams. He will encourage you to pursue your ambitions and will celebrate your successes with you.
Does he make you feel good about yourself? If a man is genuinely interested in you, he will make you feel good about yourself. He will compliment you, make you laugh, and make you feel like you’re special.
Does he seem nervous around you? This may seem counterintuitive, but a man who is genuinely interested in you may be nervous around you. He may stumble over his words, blush, or avoid eye contact.
Does he make an effort to look good when he sees you? If a man is genuinely interested in you, he will make an effort to look his best when he sees you. He will dress up, put on some cologne, and make sure he looks his best.
Does he try to impress you with his accomplishments? A man who is genuinely interested in you may try to impress you with his accomplishments. He may talk about his job, his hobbies, or his skills.
Does he go out of his way to help you? A man who is genuinely interested in you will go out of his way to help you. He will offer to help you with tasks, give you rides, or run errands for you.
Does he seem genuinely interested in you as a person? A man who is genuinely interested in you will want to learn more about you as a person. He will ask you questions about your life, your dreams, and your goals.

It can be difficult to tell whether someone is just flirting or genuinely interested in you. However, by paying attention to these signs, you can start to get a better idea of what their intentions are.