Why would a guy take 1-2 days to respond?

[Anonymous]

Some context, I like this guy and at times, I feel like maybe he does too but then again I feel like he doesn’t. He will start a convo with them either by replying to a story or reel or whatever and then I respond within the same day, a reasonable amount of time if I’m not busy or faster. He’ll reply and then then he’ll reply the following day or take two days to reply. It seems like he’ll be interested in talking to me and then doesn’t rely until next day or two days from then. So, it makes me feel like: why should I waste my time? I will cut the conversation off at a certain point and not reply because I’m annoyed with it, especially since he initiates the conversation. I did this about like 3 days ago and then he responded to something I reposted like he wants a conversation and then I reply and then the next day, he replies. I’m at the point of just cutting him off completely and not talking to him anymore. I just want to know a guy’s perspective on this before I put it to rest.

[HollyK21]

Just because you’re in a place where you’re ready/eager to date does not mean the guy you’re interested in is in the same position. He could have another (or generally other) women he’s interested in or pursuing, he could have other shit going on his life, etc etc and dating just isn’t a priority, whether that be dating you or someone else. At this point you’re basically chasing this guy, and it’s not being reciprocated, it’s hardly even being engaged. Take the hint and move on.

[Asker]

Well, to begin. I have not chased this guy. I don’t initiate any conversations. He does. I take things where they may be and reply if someone texts me. If someone doesn’t reply, I go about my day and don’t send a text asking 500 questions why. I’m not triple texting this guy or begging to know why, just to be clear. I’m also really not interested in dating this guy anymore like I used to be, I just want clarity on behavior before I unfollow him. It’s just immature and irritating when someone texts you and they reply a couple times asking questions or whatever and play a lame game.

[HollyK21]

It is a lame game, so why play it? Why engage at all when this a repeated conversation style of his?

[HollyK21]

I do hope you’re as eager to explain your own logic in this situation as you were you defend the idea of not chasing someone.

[Amy_Mi]

Because wanting isn’t the same as prioritizing.

A man who values you shows it with consistency, not convenience.

Delays happen, but repeated hesitation or silence speaks louder than excuses.

Response time reveals energy, effort, and intention not just busyness.

If he really cares, he’ll make space for you without needing reminders.

[UniquelyBasic]

Because it takes too much time to look at your phone which you're probably doing all day anyway and give 30 sec to respond. He's just too busy to bother with taking 30 seconds to respond, obviously. 🥴

[curiousandhonest]

Keep you waiting. he's playing the game. And unfortunately it usually works

[Nikki1989]

No words needed.

[slatyb]

He's not that into you.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

You’re not his priority, just entertainment