14 Phrases for Asking Someone Out
Asking someone to spend time with you can feel nerve-wracking, but having the right words makes it much easier. Learning these 14 phrases for asking someone out will help you extend an invitation with confidence, whether you’re looking for something casual or more formal. This guide provides options for different comfort levels and situations.
Common Ways to Invite Someone on a Date
Casual & Low-Pressure Phrases
- Would you like to grab a coffee sometime? A classic, low-pressure invitation that’s perfect for a first ask. After a nice conversation, I asked, “Would you like to grab a coffee sometime?”
- Are you free to hang out this weekend? A very casual and friendly way to suggest spending time together. I texted him, “Are you free to hang out this weekend?”
- I’d love to take you out for dinner. A clear and confident phrase that indicates a romantic interest. I finally said, “I’d love to take you out for dinner one night.”
- Do you want to see a movie with me? A straightforward suggestion for a classic date activity. “There’s a new film out. Do you want to see a movie with me?”
- We should get together sometime. A soft, general suggestion that can test the waters. I mentioned, “We should get together sometime,” to see how she would react.
Direct & Confident Phrases
- I was wondering if you’d like to go on a date. Polite, clear, and leaves no doubt about your intentions. I took a deep breath and said, “I was wondering if you’d like to go on a date.”
- Can I take you out this Friday? A direct question that proposes a specific plan. “Can I take you out this Friday? I know a great Italian place.”
- I’d really like to see you again. A warm and genuine phrase that expresses clear interest. After our first date, I texted, “I had a great time. I’d really like to see you again.”
- What are you doing on Saturday night? An opening that leads into an invitation. I called and asked, “What are you doing on Saturday night?” hoping she was free.
- Let me take you to dinner. A confident and slightly traditional way to ask. I looked her in the eye and said, “Let me take you to dinner.”
Creative & Specific Invitations
- There’s a new [exhibition/concert] I’d love to see. Would you be my plus-one? A fun and specific invitation that makes for a memorable date. “There’s a new photography exhibition I’d love to see. Would you be my plus-one?”
- I’ve heard great things about that new cafe. Want to check it out with me? A collaborative and casual suggestion. “I’ve heard great things about that new cafe. Want to check it out with me this week?”
- I have an extra ticket to [event]. Would you like to join me? A great opportunity-based ask that feels natural. “I have an extra ticket to the comedy show. Would you like to join me?”
- I really enjoy talking to you. Can we continue this over a drink? A smooth transition from a good conversation to a date proposal. After a long chat, I said, “I really enjoy talking to you. Can we continue this over a drink?”
Real-Life Dialogues
Alex: I had a really nice time talking with you at the party.
Sam: Me too!
Alex: Great. Would you like to grab a coffee sometime to continue the conversation?
Sam: I’d like that. How about Saturday?
Maria: You mentioned you love jazz. There’s a great band playing at The Blue Note on Friday.
Ben: Oh, I’ve been wanting to go there!
Maria: I’d love to take you. Are you free?
Ben: Yes, that sounds perfect.
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| A first-time, low-pressure ask | Would you like to grab a coffee sometime? | It’s casual, common, and doesn’t feel like a big commitment, making it easy to say yes to. |
| When you want to be clear about romantic interest | I was wondering if you’d like to go on a date. | It is direct and unambiguous, ensuring you are both on the same page. |
| When you have a specific, fun plan | I have an extra ticket to… | It provides a concrete and exciting reason for the invitation. |
| Transitioning from a great conversation | Can we continue this over a drink? | It’s a smooth, natural, and flattering way to suggest extending your time together. |
Practice Tip
Practice saying a few of these 14 phrases for asking someone out out loud. Hearing the words can make them feel more natural when the right moment comes.
Why This Matters
- Using a clear and confident phrase reduces ambiguity and helps the other person understand your intentions.
- It shows respect for the other person’s time and feelings by being straightforward yet polite.
- Knowing these 14 phrases for asking someone out gives you the language tools to take a chance on a potential connection.
Asking someone out is about being brave and showing interest. With these phrases, you can do it in a way that feels authentic and respectful. Happy learning! 😊
