If you’ve been on Tinder for more than five minutes, you’ve seen the question: “So… what are you looking for on here?” It can feel like a trap. Relax. With a clear, honest answer (and a bit of charm), you’ll filter faster, avoid mismatches, and keep the convo moving.
TL;DR
- Be honest and specific without boxing yourself in; “open to seeing where it goes” still works when said well.
- Tinder now helps you signal intent better with Relationship Goals, Explore categories, and new Modes.
- Safety and authenticity tools like facial verification and ID checks are standard in 2025.
- Keep your profile consistent with your answer to avoid repeating the same question.
- A confident, direct reply beats vague or evasive answers every time.
So What Brings You To Tinder?
If you’ve been using Tinder for long enough, you’ve definitely heard the age-old question: “What are you looking for on Tinder?” If you’ve then proceeded to freak out about how exactly to answer it, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve had one of these variations: “Why are you on Tinder?” “What brings you to Tinder?” “What do you want from Tinder?” “So what are you here for?” “Are you using Tinder for any particular reason?” This question can make or break… What if she’s thinking the absolute worst about me? What if what we want is completely different and she stops talking to me? Well, my friend, you are not alone if you’ve thought this way. Many people get unmatched or ghosted after this question. So… how should you answer “what are you looking for on Tinder?” It depends on you and what you actually want. If you’re not sure, saying that you’re open-minded keeps your options open. Everyone is on Tinder for different reasons, and that’s okay.
Some Of The Reasons People Are On Tinder
- Hook-ups or short-term fun
- Dates that could lead to something real
- New friends or to expand a social circle
- Confidence boost, curiosity, or boredom
Why Your Match Is Asking What You Are Looking For On Tinder
Your match is filtering for alignment. If she’s looking for something meaningful, she doesn’t want to waste time with someone who’s just after a casual fling. The best approach is honesty. If you want something serious, say it. If you’re there for fun, say that too—just with some finesse. Tinder’s new intent-signaling features in 2025, like Relationship Goals and Explore categories, make it easier to show what you’re looking for before you even match.
What Your Match Is Looking For On Tinder
People use Tinder for different reasons: hook-ups, relationships, boredom, or curiosity. While Tinder still has a hookup reputation, plenty of daters are searching for connection beyond a one-night stand. Men tend to use dating apps more for casual sex, but there’s more overlap between intentions than you might think. Focus on making the conversation fun and genuine instead of guessing too much about their motives. Tinder’s verification and safety tools also make interactions feel more trustworthy now.
What Are Guys Looking For On Tinder?
Men on Tinder often lean toward casual connections, but there’s a growing number who want relationships. Most guys simply want to meet someone interesting, have fun conversations, and see where it leads. The truth is, men and women aren’t as different as people think—both want chemistry, comfort, and clarity.
How To Answer “What Are You Looking For On Tinder?”
Whether you’re on Tinder for casual dating, a serious relationship, or just meeting new people, the best answers mix honesty, humor, and self-awareness. Here’s how to approach it right.
How NOT To Answer “What Are You Looking For On Tinder?”
Avoid vague or lazy replies like “Just curious” or “Got bored and signed up.” They sound noncommittal and uninterested. This question deserves a direct answer, not an evasion. Give something authentic but still lighthearted—women on Tinder are tired of unclear responses. If you don’t answer properly, they’ll assume you’re just chasing hookups.
If You Are Using Tinder For A Hookup
You can still be honest without being crude. Try: “I don’t have a rigid plan. I’m open to meeting fun people and seeing if there’s a vibe. I’m not hunting for anything serious right now, but I’m not treating this like a numbers game either.” That shows confidence and awareness without coming off desperate or shallow.
If You Want To Be Funny About It
Humor can get your message across in a playful way. Try lines like: “I’m writing a stage adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey and I’m casting.” or “I’m workshopping my breakfast-in-bed skills and need a volunteer.” These give flirty energy without being too direct.
If You Are Using Tinder To Find A Relationship
If you want something long-term, keep it cool and casual: “Mainly to meet some great people, grab a drink, and see where it goes. I’m not forcing anything, but if there’s a real connection, I’m open to it.” Set your Relationship Goals on your profile so your intentions are clear from the start.
If You’re Up For Anything
If you’re open to either casual or serious, say it: “Honestly? Open to anything. If we vibe into something serious, great. If it’s just a fun, flirty phase, that’s cool too.” This answer fits almost any match.
How To Stop Being Asked, “What Are You Looking For On Tinder?”
You can reduce how often you get this question by showing your intentions clearly on your profile. Use Relationship Goals and Explore intent categories so matches see what you’re after. Try new Modes like For You or Double Date to find people in the same space. Verified profiles get more trust and better responses too.
What Is “Relationship Goals” on Tinder?
Relationship Goals lets you show what you’re looking for—long-term, short-term, or still figuring it out—right on your profile. Combined with Explore categories like “Serious Dater” or “Non-monogamy,” you’ll spend less time guessing what others want. If you’re open to possibilities, “still figuring it out” keeps your options wide.
Final Thoughts
Be honest about what you’re looking for on Tinder. There’s no single right answer. If someone loses interest because your goals don’t match, that’s okay—they weren’t the right fit anyway. Be real, stay open, and your matches will appreciate it. Want to level up your Tinder game? Check out the 6-Step Tinder Tune-Up for better matches and more engaging chats.
FAQ
Does Tinder still work for relationships in 2025?
Yes. Tinder is still one of the biggest dating apps worldwide and has added intent features to help users find genuine matches for serious relationships.
How do I make my intentions clear without scaring people off?
Use relaxed language like “seeing where it goes,” and set Relationship Goals or Explore options to let your profile do the talking. Then answer naturally when asked.
What new Tinder features should I try?
Try Double Date or the new Modes if you prefer a more social, less pressured experience. They make conversations flow more easily.
Is Tinder verification worth it?
Yes. Verified profiles feel safer and get more engagement. The latest verification tools include selfie and ID options for extra trust.
Should I still ask “What are you looking for?”
If the other person’s profile makes it clear, skip it. Otherwise, ask—but share your own answer first to make it more conversational.
How do I avoid mismatched intentions?
Update your profile settings, be honest in chats, and match within categories that align with what you want—casual or committed.
