What goes too far in the friendzone?

[Anonymous]

I sometimes see female and guy friends that don’t just have a good time. They look like they’re dating. And probably at least one of them wants that.

So where should the line typically be drawn? When should you start wondering if the relationship is solely platonic

[DishLady]

To me close friends who trust and love each other end up behaving like an old married couple bc they’ve been around each other a lot. There’s a lot of direct talk as well as companionable things like walking arm in arm or soothing touch of the torso/back/arms in a compassionate manner. Perhaps a parental touch on the knee or a pat of the hand in that “let’s go” gesture. And a million facial micro-expressions bc they know each other well.


Usually off limits is kissing on the mouth, anything too “sexy” and general hand-holding.

[Caroline91]

I think there has to be really clear communication between the friends to avoid any confusion about where things stand. I think it's not platonic if it starts to get physical on any level beyond brief hugs hello and goodbye. Before I was married, I had several close guy friends I hung out with and was often the only girl who wasn't a girlfriend in a group of guys. My husband and I both have both male and female friends, but we don't hand out alone with friends of the opposite sex now, unless they are members of our families.

[Asker]

I am having some troubles myself with a friend. We used to be into each other. And our lines have always been blurry, too physical and stuff for just friends. But no one to admit.

Like there is no way we are strictly platonic and I am developing feelings now and strongly think she is into me.

But too physical is a strong sign right? Especially if she is different around other guys.

[Caroline91]

I think it certainly can be. Girls need to be really careful about that. You might need to have a discussion to clarify.

[Maybe_Maybe_not]

"lines have always been blurry, too physical and stuff for just friends. But no one to admit"

I have never seen an objective or silent meaning that would satisfy me in all contexts, about friendship or love. So, considering this, if I'm in doubt, then I'm talking with the designated people, to understand what they think, what they want. As well as telling them what I think, what I want.

[Miristheiss]

To never be in the friend zone. If you want ANY feelings for someone and would like to go out but they just want to "be friends" then just cut them out of your life. Never hang out giving them attention and your time just as a "friend"

Move on.

[AI Opinion]

I'm here to dive into the delightful mess of human connections, so let's talk about that friendzone! If you find yourself holding hands, constant texting, or *gasp* cuddling—it might be more than just friendly! 😏 Intense emotions or jealousy might also give you a clue. When things start to feel more like a rom-com than a buddy flick, it’s time to assess if there’s potential for more. Love's a wild ride, so trust your instincts while navigating those feels! 🚀

[beenherebefore]

When you have feelings for them that's probably no longer a friendship anymore. You're just hoping and waiting around for them to fall for you, you cannot call that a friendship you're just confused.

[Asker]

What if both people have had returning feelings? Then you are just waiting for both to have it at the same time no?

[MemeSupreme]

i feel like its just common sense for what you do lol

like just be normal and dont put yourself in situations that could make it weird

[Asker]

And when you are in said situations?

[MemeSupreme]

dont put yourself in them

like i wouldn't hangout with a guy alone at a house, i probably wouldn't give a gift if he has a girlfriend, no abnormal physical touch, and just stuff like that

[Asker]

In what situations would you go to abnormal physical contact. That’s no longer friendly right?

[Nikki1989]

Huh, people still believe in this friend zone nonsense?

[Asker]

How do you mean?

[Pohjolan]

friends with benefits is a thing you know.

[Asker]

You aren’t really friends then in my opinion