You’re out at a party, walking down the street, or just minding your business online, and then suddenly someone says, “Did it hurt… when you fell from heaven?” You pause for a second—was that really a pick up line?
Yup. It was.
Whether they make you laugh or make you cringe, pick up lines are everywhere. Some people love them, some people hate them, and most people don’t really know how to react when someone actually uses one.
That’s exactly what this article is here for. Whether you want to flirt back, shut it down politely, or throw in a sassy comeback, we’re going to break down exactly how to respond to pick up lines in a way that’s confident, authentic, and maybe even fun.
220+ Responses to “Pick Up Lines”
Flattered
- That’s actually really sweet, thank you.
- You just made my day with that one.
- Aww, that was cute!
- Haha, stop it, I’m smiling too much now.
- Wow, that was unexpectedly charming.
- Okay, that was kind of adorable.
- You’re really trying, and I appreciate that.
- That was surprisingly nice to hear.
- I’ll take that as a compliment!
- You’re making it hard not to like you right now.
Playfully Interested
- Bold move. I kind of like it.
- Ohhh, someone’s got jokes.
- You know what? That was actually kind of smooth.
- You’re lucky I’m into corny stuff.
- Keep going, I’m entertained.
- Alright, alright, I’ll give you points for effort.
- That was cheesy, but I’m not mad about it.
- I should be rolling my eyes, but here I am smiling.
- You practiced that one, didn’t you?
- If you’ve got more of those, I’m listening.
Genuinely Interested
- Okay, I’m intrigued. Tell me more about you.
- That actually made me want to keep talking to you.
- You’ve got my attention.
- Wow, not bad! So what else you got?
- That worked way better than it should’ve.
- I didn’t expect that to hit, but it did.
- Okay, I’m low-key impressed.
- That was clever—I like clever.
- I’d be lying if I said that didn’t work.
- Alright, you win. Drinks?
Laughing It Off
- Oh my god, that was awful—do you have more?
- I can’t believe you just said that!
- You seriously pulled that one out in public?
- Wow. That was… something.
- I’m going to need a second to recover from that one.
- You should be arrested for that level of cheesiness.
- I’ll give you points for making me laugh, at least.
- Okay but like… where did you even hear that one?
- Was that supposed to work? Because it didn’t—but I’m laughing.
- That line belongs in a museum.
Sarcastic
- Oh wow, are you a poet or just Googling again?
- That was so original… said no one ever.
- Wow, should I swoon now or later?
- I’m overwhelmed by your creativity.
- Stop it, you’re making me fall asleep.
- Hold on, I need to grab my barf bag.
- You must be exhausted from using that line all day.
- What, was that on sale at the Pick-Up Line Outlet?
- Shakespeare called—he wants his lines back.
- That was… something. Not sure what, but something.
Cringing
- Oof. That hurt a little.
- Please don’t ever say that again.
- That was physically painful.
- I have second-hand embarrassment right now.
- I’m not sure if I should laugh or cry.
- You practiced that in the mirror, didn’t you?
- Yikes… how long have you been saving that one?
- That was rough, my friend.
- I think I need a minute to recover.
- So… we’re pretending that didn’t happen, right?
Blushing
- Oh wow… that was actually kind of sweet.
- I wasn’t ready for that!
- Okay, now I’m blushing. Thanks a lot.
- You’re just saying that to make me blush, huh?
- I don’t know what to say to that…
- Stop, I’m turning red over here!
- Why do I suddenly feel all shy now?
- That was… unexpectedly cute.
- I can’t lie, that got me a little.
- You really caught me off guard with that one!
Confused
- Wait… what does that even mean?
- I think I missed something—can you run that by me again?
- Is that supposed to be a compliment?
- I… don’t get it.
- Was that English?
- Are you trying to flirt or summon a demon?
- Hold on, I need a second to process that one.
- You lost me at hello.
- Sorry, I’m genuinely confused—was that a joke?
- Is there a punchline coming or was that it?
Deadpan/Blank
- …Okay.
- Noted.
- Thanks, I guess.
- Wow.
- You really said that out loud.
- Huh.
- Interesting choice.
- Cool story.
- That’s… something.
- Alright then.
Disinterested
- Anyway…
- Not really in the mood, but thanks.
- I’ve heard better.
- Mm-hmm.
- Yeah, not my vibe.
- Moving on.
- Nice try.
- Can we skip to the part where I walk away?
- Appreciate the effort. Still no.
- I’m not impressed, but good luck out there.
Rejecting Politely
- That’s kind of you, but I’m not interested.
- Sweet of you to try, but I’ll pass.
- You seem nice, but I’m not feeling the spark.
- I appreciate the compliment, really.
- I’m flattered, but it’s a no from me.
- Thank you, but I’m seeing someone.
- That was a bold move. I respect it—still no though.
- Not quite my type, but I wish you the best.
- That was cute, but I’m not looking to connect.
- I’d rather be honest—this isn’t for me.
Rejecting Firmly
- No.
- Not interested.
- Please stop.
- That’s not going to work on me.
- Let’s not do this.
- No thanks, really.
- Try that on someone else.
- This conversation’s over.
- You’re wasting your time.
- That’s a hard no.
Turning the Tables
- Is that the best you’ve got?
- Wow, do you use that line on everyone?
- Okay smooth talker, your turn—answer a hard question.
- That’s cute. Want to hear mine?
- So are you always this forward?
- Alright then, impress me.
- You clearly rehearsed that—now freestyle.
- Tell me something real instead.
- You just tried that on me? Really?
- Nice try, now earn a real response.
Teasing Back
- Oof, that line needs a little polish.
- Cheesy and bold. I kinda respect it.
- Careful, with lines like that you’ll melt the floor.
- You just unlocked level 1: Slightly Amused.
- Was that your best material? Try again.
- I feel like I just walked into a rom-com.
- You’re lucky I’m into dad jokes.
- That was so bad it almost worked.
- You’re not getting off that easy—hit me with another one.
- Alright, I’ll let that one slide… barely.
Calling It Out
- That’s a pick-up line, isn’t it?
- Wow, you really just went for the cliché.
- Is this your usual routine?
- That sounded suspiciously rehearsed.
- You’ve used that one before, haven’t you?
- Okay, how many people have you tested that on today?
- Classic pick-up line energy right there.
- Are we in a rom-com right now?
- Do you carry a book of lines or something?
- Oh, you’re one of those flirts.
Surprised
- Whoa, didn’t see that coming.
- Okay, that caught me off guard.
- Well, that was unexpected!
- Huh. You really said that out loud.
- Did you just… flirt with me?
- That took a turn I wasn’t ready for.
- Wow, bold move.
- Where did that come from?
- You’re braver than most.
- Not what I expected, but okay!
Mock Serious
- Wow… I think you just changed my life.
- Was that written by Shakespeare himself?
- Hold on, I need a moment to recover.
- I guess we’re getting married now.
- Stop it or I’ll fall in love right here.
- I wasn’t ready for that level of emotional depth.
- How dare you come in here with that kind of poetry?
- I’ll alert the media immediately.
- This must be fate.
- I’m swooning. Somebody get the smelling salts.
Questioning
- Do people actually respond to that?
- Was that supposed to work?
- What made you pick that one?
- Did you think that through before saying it?
- Was that a dare?
- Did your friends approve that line first?
- Why that line out of all the options?
- Is that something you say often?
- Was that sincere or are you just bored?
- Do you have a backup plan?
Skeptical
- Hmm… not buying it.
- That felt a little too smooth.
- What are you really after?
- Seems like you’ve practiced that.
- I don’t know if I trust a line that polished.
- Are you trying to be charming or ironic?
- Do you say that to everyone, or just today’s target?
- Trying too hard or playing it cool?
- Suspicious. But I’ll allow it—for now.
- Is this where the hidden camera crew pops out?
Returning the Line
- Cute. Now here’s mine—are you a magician? Because every time I look at you, everyone else disappears.
- Alright, my turn—are you French? Because Eiffel for you.
- Nice one. Now brace yourself—do you have a name, or can I call you mine?
- Good effort! But can you handle this—do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?
- Okay okay, but how about this—if you were a vegetable, you’d be a cute-cumber.
- Now we’re playing—was your dad a boxer? Because you’re a knockout.
- Let’s duel in corniness—are you Wi-Fi? Because I’m feeling a connection.
- Impressive. But check this—if looks could kill, you’d be a weapon of mass destruction.
- Not bad. But I raise you this—do you have a Band-Aid? Because I just scraped my knee falling for you.
- Two can play this game—are you made of copper and tellurium? Because you’re Cu-Te.
Incredulous
- You seriously just said that?
- You’re joking, right?
- I cannot believe you actually used that line.
- No way that just happened.
- You rehearsed that in the mirror, didn’t you?
- You’ve got some nerve, I’ll give you that.
- I need to sit down after that one.
- You went full cliché and committed to it?
- That was either terrible or genius.
- I’m still processing what just happened.
Silent Stare
- blinks slowly
- stares in disbelief
- raises one eyebrow, unimpressed
- looks around for hidden cameras
- gives the really? look
- long pause, then a small sigh
- lip twitch into a barely-there smirk
- blank stare with tilted head
- slow turn and walk away
- sips drink, says nothing
What Are Pick Up Lines?
Pick up lines are short, flirty one-liners designed to get someone’s attention in a playful or romantic way. They’re the icebreakers of the dating world. Instead of saying “Hi, I think you’re cute,” someone might say, “Are you French? Because Eiffel for you.”
They’ve been around forever, from Shakespearean love sonnets to 80s rom-coms to dating apps today. The common thread? They’re meant to be bold, surprising, and sometimes just plain silly.
The effectiveness of a pick up line depends on how it’s delivered and the mood of the person receiving it. A cheesy line can totally work if it makes someone laugh or lightens the moment. Or… it can backfire in a big way if it comes off as sleazy or forced.
The Psychology Behind Pick Up Lines
Why do people use pick up lines, anyway? You might think they’re outdated or corny, but there’s actually some psychology at play.
For starters, pick up lines reduce the fear of rejection. If someone delivers a line and gets rejected, they can laugh it off as a joke. It wasn’t their real self getting turned down—it was the line.
Also, pick up lines are a way to show playfulness. Humor is attractive, and a well-timed pick up line can show confidence, creativity, and charm. For some, it’s about taking a risk. For others, it’s just for laughs.
In some cases, they’re not even meant to work—they’re used to stand out from the crowd, especially online where everyone’s saying “Hey” and “What’s up.”
Why Do People Use Pick Up Lines?
Let’s break this down further. People use pick up lines for a variety of reasons:
- They want to stand out: A creative or clever line can separate them from the sea of boring greetings.
- They’re nervous: A funny line might make rejection less painful.
- They think it’ll impress you: They might believe you’ll find it witty or charming.
- They’re just having fun: Sometimes, it’s more about getting a laugh than getting a date.
- It’s a social experiment: Believe it or not, some people go out just to test different lines and reactions.
Understanding their intention can help you decide how to respond—whether to play along, engage, or walk away.
Types of Pick Up Lines You’ll Encounter
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the wide range of pick up lines out there. Knowing what type of line you’re dealing with helps shape the best response.
1. The Funny Pick Up Line
These are delivered with a smile and meant to make you laugh.
- “Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears.”
- “Are you Australian? Because when I look at you, I feel like I’m down under.”
How to respond: If it makes you laugh, let it! Humor is a great way to start a conversation.
2. The Cringey or Cheesy Line
These are so bad, they might be good… or not.
- “Do you have a Band-Aid? Because I just scraped my knee falling for you.”
- “Are you from Tennessee? Because you’re the only ten I see.”
How to respond: You can laugh it off or throw one back. Try, “Wow, did you find that on a gum wrapper?”
3. The Clever/Witty Line
These lines take a little brainpower and usually come from someone who wants to impress you with their smarts.
- “Are you a 90-degree angle? Because you’re looking right.”
- “I must be a snowflake because I’ve fallen for you.”
How to respond: If you’re into it, show appreciation for the creativity. If not, a quick chuckle and “Nice try!” will do.
4. The Sweet and Sincere Line
These aren’t always cheesy—sometimes they’re just heartfelt.
- “I saw you from across the room and had to say hello.”
- “You have the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen.”
How to respond: If you’re flattered, say thank you. If not interested, be kind but clear.
5. The Inappropriate or Gross Line
These are the ones that cross boundaries or make you feel uncomfortable.
- Anything overly sexual or disrespectful.
- Lines that feel more like harassment than flirting.
How to respond: Be direct. “That’s not okay.” Walk away if needed. Your safety and comfort come first.
How to Respond to Pick Up Lines Like a Pro
Here’s where the fun begins. Your response depends on your mood, the line itself, and your interest level. Let’s go through your options.
1. Use Humor Right Back
If someone hits you with a line, why not return the favor?
- Them: “Do you believe in love at first sight?”
- You: “No, but I believe in awkward first conversations.”
This keeps things light and flirty while giving you control of the moment.
2. Playfully Roast Them
If you’re not impressed, but don’t want to be rude, give a playful roast.
- “Wow, that one’s got 2007 written all over it.”
- “You really rehearsed that, didn’t you?”
This makes your stance clear without killing the vibe entirely.
3. Flirt Back If You’re Interested
A good pick up line might actually spark your interest. If so, feel free to engage.
- “Okay, that was actually cute.”
- “You had me at ‘magician’—what’s your name?”
This invites more conversation without jumping in too deep.
4. Shut It Down Respectfully
Not feeling it? That’s totally okay. Try one of these:
- “Thanks, but I’m not really into that.”
- “I appreciate the effort, but I’m not interested.”
Keep your tone calm and kind—you don’t need to explain further.
5. Be Direct When Needed
If the line is inappropriate, aggressive, or disrespectful, don’t hold back.
- “That’s not appropriate.”
- “Please don’t talk to me like that.”
It’s your right to protect your space.
How to Set Boundaries Without Being Rude
Sometimes you just don’t want to engage. You can still be polite and firm.
- Smile and say, “Not today, thanks.”
- Change the subject or step away.
- If online, don’t feel bad about not responding at all.
Being kind doesn’t mean you have to accept every attempt at flirtation. Boundaries are healthy.
When to Walk Away
It’s one thing to get a cheesy line. It’s another to feel cornered or uncomfortable. If someone won’t take a hint—or worse, gets aggressive—walk away. No explanation needed.
Your time, energy, and emotional well-being are valuable. Don’t waste them on someone who doesn’t respect that.
Safety Tips When Dealing With Strangers Using Pick Up Lines
Most people using pick up lines are harmless. But you never know. Here’s how to stay safe, especially in public or on dating apps:
- Always meet in public the first time.
- Let a friend know where you are.
- Watch your drink if you’re at a bar or party.
- Block/report anyone who gets creepy online.
- Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.
When to Throw One Back: Using Pick Up Lines Yourself
Want to turn the tables and use a pick up line of your own? Go for it! Just make sure it’s playful, respectful, and in the right context.
Here are a few that tend to get smiles:
- “Are you a loan from a bank? Because you’ve got my interest.”
- “I was blinded by your beauty… I’m going to need your name and number for insurance purposes.”
And the best one? A sincere, “Hi. I think you’re really interesting. Can I talk to you?”
Sometimes, honesty is the ultimate pick up line.
Pick Up Lines in Pop Culture
Pick up lines aren’t just used in real life—they’re everywhere in pop culture. From romantic comedies to viral TikToks, they’ve become a cultural symbol of flirting, fun, and awkwardness.
Characters like Barney Stinson from How I Met Your Mother made them famous (and infamous). Even in modern dating apps like Tinder and Bumble, pick up lines are a staple of opening messages.
The key takeaway? Pick up lines can be a part of the dating journey, but they’re just the beginning. What really matters is the person behind the line.
Conclusion
Whether you’re out to charm, clap back, or just have a little fun, having the right response to a pick-up line can turn any moment into a memorable one. From sweet and flirty to downright savage, the possibilities are endless—just like the laughs. If you enjoyed this list and love clever comebacks, you might also want to check out our 220+ Responses to “How Long Does Depop Support Take” for more witty ways to handle unexpected questions. Keep the banter going, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!
FAQs
Q. Are pick up lines ever a good way to meet someone?
Yes, if they’re light-hearted and followed up with genuine conversation. They’re just an opener—what happens next matters more.
Q. How do I respond to pick up lines online?
Same rules apply: If it’s funny, laugh. If it’s creepy, ignore or block. Your digital space deserves respect too.
Q. What if I freeze up and don’t know how to respond?
Totally normal. Just smile, say “thanks,” or ask them something random to shift gears. You don’t have to be witty on demand.
Q. Should I use pick up lines myself?
Sure! Just keep them respectful and fun. Confidence makes anything work better—even a cheesy pun.
Q. What’s the worst kind of pick up line?
Any line that’s disrespectful, overly sexual too soon, or makes you feel uncomfortable is a definite no-go. The best pick up lines make people smile, not squirm.
