Meeting someone new can be exciting, but the wrong greeting can set the tone for an awkward encounter. Certain phrases just seem to rub people the wrong way right from the start.
In this list, we’ll explore sixteen greetings that tend to turn people off immediately. Let’s dive into these awkward first impressions and why they cause so much discomfort.
1. What’s your sign?
Starting a conversation with ‘What’s your sign?’ might seem harmless, but it can often come across as intrusive. It implies a level of intimacy and personal interest that’s unwarranted for a first meeting. Many people find it presumptuous and even a little silly, as it assigns characteristics based on astrological signs.
Not everyone believes in astrology, and this question might corner someone into a conversation they have no interest in. Instead of sparking interest, it can make the other person feel pigeonholed. This greeting often sets the stage for awkwardness rather than connection.
In some cases, it can even lead to misunderstandings if the person feels you’re making assumptions about their personality. Best to save this for a later conversation!
2. We’ve met, right?
‘We’ve met, right?’ is a greeting that instantly puts someone on the defensive. It suggests familiarity, but when there’s none, it can make the other person feel guilty or embarrassed. This question implies that they should remember you, and if they don’t, it might make them feel awkward or forgetful.
The introduction creates an uncomfortable pressure to recall a past interaction that never happened. It also assumes that there’s already a bond or connection, when in reality, there’s none.
Instead of breaking the ice, this greeting builds a wall of confusion and discomfort. People generally prefer a straightforward introduction without the guesswork. This phrase is better left unsaid!
3. You look tired
Telling someone they ‘look tired’ is rarely taken as a compliment. While it might be a genuine observation, it often comes across as critical. This greeting can make the other person feel self-conscious and uncomfortable.
It’s like pointing out a flaw right at the start, which isn’t the best way to make a positive first impression. The person might feel you’re judging their appearance or assuming something is wrong with them.
Such comments can lead to a defensive or uneasy response, rather than a warm reception. It’s better to stick to neutral or positive greetings that lift the mood rather than bring it down.
4. So, what do you do?
Jumping into ‘So, what do you do?’ as a greeting can be off-putting, especially as a first question. It can feel like you’re assessing someone’s worth based on their job. Not everyone loves to talk about work, especially at social events meant for relaxation and enjoyment.
This question can come off as transactional, as if you’re more interested in what the person can offer you rather than who they are. It might make the person feel reduced to their job title, rather than being seen as a whole person.
Instead, a general question about their interests or the event can create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
5. You remind me of my ex
Saying ‘You remind me of my ex’ is a surefire way to create discomfort. It’s an odd way to start a conversation and can be perceived as inappropriate. This greeting puts the other person in an awkward position, as they might wonder why you’re making such a comparison.
The statement can carry negative connotations, implying that you’re still hung up on your ex or that you’re projecting past relationships onto new acquaintances. It can also make the person feel like they’re being sized up against someone else.
This introduction often leads to an awkward silence or an attempt to quickly change the subject. Avoid this one at all costs!
6. Aren’t you too old for this place?
‘Aren’t you too old for this place?’ is a greeting that smacks of judgment. It’s not only tactless but can also make someone feel out of place or self-conscious about their age. Such a comment is a direct hit on their confidence and can ruin the mood instantly.
It implies that there are age restrictions for enjoying certain venues or activities, which can be rather insulting. Age doesn’t define someone’s right to enjoy an experience, and this question assumes otherwise.
It’s a greeting that reflects more on the speaker’s narrow mindset than anything else. Better to choose a more inclusive approach!
7. Smile!
Telling someone to smile might come with good intentions, but it’s often intrusive. It assumes that the person isn’t happy or that their expression needs correction. This greeting can make someone feel uncomfortable, as if their natural demeanor is inadequate.
Rather than brightening the mood, it can create tension, especially if the person feels pressured to change their expression. Smiling is a personal choice, and demanding it can feel like an invasion of one’s autonomy.
This greeting is best left behind, as it doesn’t foster genuine interaction. A simple ‘hello’ would suffice to set a pleasant tone.
8. You must be fun at parties
Saying ‘You must be fun at parties’ in a sarcastic tone is a greeting that can quickly turn sour. It’s often used to imply the opposite, suggesting that the person is dull or uninteresting. This quip can be hurtful and make someone feel defensive about their personality.
A first meeting should aim to find common ground, not highlight perceived shortcomings. This phrase creates a judgmental atmosphere rather than a welcoming one.
Instead of connecting, it might lead to a strained and uncomfortable interaction. Opt for a greeting that celebrates positivity and openness, rather than sarcasm.
9. Tell me something interesting about you
‘Tell me something interesting about you’ can be an intimidating greeting. It puts immediate pressure on the other person to impress, turning a simple meeting into a performance. Not everyone is comfortable with such directness right away.
This question can make someone feel like they’re being tested or judged. It also assumes that they have something ‘interesting’ ready to go, which might not be the case.
Instead of fostering curiosity, it might lead to awkwardness or anxiety. A more natural approach is to let the conversation flow organically, without such demanding expectations.
10. You’re not like other [insert category]
![You're not like other [insert category]](https://herway.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Tell-me-something-interesting-about-you.jpg)
‘You’re not like other [insert category]’ can be a backhanded compliment. While it might seem flattering, it often suggests that the category itself is undesirable or lacking. This greeting can make someone feel singled out in an uncomfortable way.
It can also imply stereotypes or assumptions about the group being referenced. Rather than creating a connection, it might put the person in a defensive position, feeling the need to justify themselves.
Such comments rarely lead to genuine interaction. A more neutral greeting would likely yield a more positive and open conversation.
11. Oh, you’re one of those people
Saying ‘Oh, you’re one of those people’ carries a tone of judgment that can immediately put someone off. It implies that there’s something notable or strange about their preferences or opinions. This phrase often comes with a knowing smirk, as if the speaker has already categorized the person.
Rather than fostering understanding, it creates a divide. It’s an isolating comment that can make someone feel alienated rather than part of a conversation.
Such a greeting often leads to miscommunication and discomfort. A more accepting and open-ended introduction would pave the way for a better interaction.
12. Why so serious?
Asking ‘Why so serious?’ might be intended to lighten the mood, but it often does the opposite. It can come across as dismissive of someone’s feelings or demeanor. This greeting suggests that their natural state isn’t acceptable or enjoyable.
Rather than eliciting laughter, it might make the other person feel self-conscious or defensive. A more respectful approach would be to engage with genuine interest, rather than questioning their seriousness.
This phrase often sets a negative tone, making the person feel misunderstood. Opting for a straightforward greeting is usually more effective in creating a positive atmosphere.
13. Let me guess—you’re single?
Guessing someone’s relationship status with ‘Let me guess—you’re single?’ can be presumptuous and unwelcome. It’s an invasive question that assumes something personal right off the bat.
This greeting can make someone feel exposed or judged, especially if they’re not comfortable discussing their personal life with strangers. It can also imply that there’s something notable about their single status that needs highlighting.
Instead of fostering connection, it might lead to discomfort or embarrassment. A more considerate greeting would focus on mutual interests rather than personal details.
14. Well, you’re definitely not shy!
Telling someone ‘Well, you’re definitely not shy!’ can be a double-edged sword. It might be meant as a compliment, but it often comes across as a critique. This greeting can make the person feel like they’re being too loud or boisterous.
It implies that their behavior is noteworthy, possibly in a negative way. Rather than uplifting, it might make the person feel self-conscious about how they’re being perceived.
Such comments can lead to awkwardness, especially if the person feels misunderstood. A more neutral greeting would likely foster a better interaction.
15. You’re brave for wearing that
Commenting ‘You’re brave for wearing that’ often sends mixed signals. While it’s intended as a compliment, it can be interpreted as criticism of their fashion choice. This greeting can make someone feel unsure about their appearance.
It implies that their outfit is unusual or risky, which might not align with the person’s comfort or style. Instead of celebrating individuality, it puts them on the spot, questioning their choices.
Such a greeting often leads to self-doubt rather than confidence. Opting for a straightforward compliment would likely enhance the interaction.
16. Are you always this intense?
Asking ‘Are you always this intense?’ can be an off-putting greeting. It implies that the person’s demeanor is overwhelming or too much. This comment can make them feel self-conscious about their natural energy or enthusiasm.
Rather than being a lighthearted observation, it often comes off as a critique. It places the person in a position to justify their behavior, which isn’t the ideal start to a conversation.
Such a greeting tends to create tension rather than ease. A more welcoming and open approach would set a better tone for the interaction.