On a first date, should the bill be split or should the man pay?

[Anonymous]

I think the man should pay on the first date, unless it's something too expensive, like two coffees. Other meetings can be paid for jointly, or either the woman or the man can pay. But it's a gentleman's thing for the man to pay on the first date.

[Masie]

I agree with the other girl that has posted so far. I think splitting is the way to go. Not just because you don't want him to think he is owed something.

You also have no idea if there will be a second date. I would feel bad if someone paid for me and I wasn't sure if I wanted to go out again.

[Maybe_Maybe_not]

It totally depends on the area you live in, this area dictates social rules.

I never asked myself what I should do, I just followed the rules. And it works like a charm

[lilBigPotato]

There's no "should". If someone wants to make the extra effort and pay that's nice and if the bill is split it's good too.

[Abbycado]

Split. You don’t want him thinking you “owe” him something for paying. Get what I mean?

[Alex-Snow]

Generally it is common for the guy to pay for the first date. After that either one of them could pay or split the bill.

[Asker]

Yeah yeah... This is what I wanted to talk about. I'd meet someone I've taken the first step towards becoming a couple with, and it's just the price of two coffees. I can pay for that, no problem, but it's nicer if the guy pays on the first date. Afterwards, I'll pay too. It's wrong to constantly make him pay, but I guess everyone thinks differently, perhaps due to cultural differences.

[Alex-Snow]

True... you make some good points. I'd buy you a cup of coffee any day :)

[jahaims]

Are you a prostitute? Why does someone have to pay for your time unless you are a hooker?

[Asker]

Does your father say this to your mother when he pays the bill?

[Asker]

If I'm going to be in a relationship with a guy, money shouldn't matter between us, but what if he pays for two coffees on the first date? I'll pay, no problem.

[_Jenny_]

Invite me and I’ll gladly pay

[bowenw]

Whoever made the the invitation should pay.

[In_Trance]

The woman should pay