When it comes to popping the question, the moment is fraught with anticipation and, hopefully, romance. However, not every proposal goes according to plan. From the awkwardly humorous to the downright dismissive, here are 17 things you should never say when someone asks to marry you.
Fine
The word “Fine” might sound like agreement, but it’s hardly the enthusiastic response one hopes for when proposing. It turns out, some have heard this lackluster reply and still made it to their anniversaries, proving sometimes a tepid yes can turn into a lifetime of happiness.
Urghh
A disgusted “urgh” in response to a proposal, especially one motivated by practical concerns like health insurance, highlights the less-than-romantic aspects of marriage. It’s an honest reaction, but probably not the one the proposer was hoping for.
Who Are You?
Being asked, “Who are you, and how did you get in my house?” is humorously touted as a common rejection. It’s an extreme way to highlight the importance of actually knowing the person you’re proposing to.
You Don’t Earn Enough
Hearing “You don’t make enough to propose to me” is a harsh rejection rooted in material concerns. It’s a painful reminder that, for some, financial status weighs heavily in matters of the heart.
We’re Already Married
Forgetting that you’re already married and proposing again might be a sign of memory loss, but it can also be a sweet (if confused) reaffirmation of love. It’s a reminder that love can endure, even when memory falters.
Gross!
A response focused on the cleanliness of the ring rather than the sentiment of the proposal reflects a preoccupation with details over emotions. It’s an unexpected and somewhat humorous deflection of a serious moment.
It Depends on the Ring
Judging the worthiness of a proposal by the size or cost of the ring reduces the moment to a transaction. It’s a materialistic response that misses the emotional significance of the gesture.
Not Yet
“Bonus ‘bad’ points if this isn’t the first proposal,” captures the awkwardness of asking multiple times. It’s a phrase that dangles hope while also postponing commitment, a mixed message that can be both frustrating and hopeful.
I’m Already Married
Claiming to be already married, especially to an imaginary character, is a quirky way to decline. It highlights the imaginative lengths some will go to avoid engagement.
*Fleeing In Terror*
The image of someone physically fleeing from a proposal, to the point of scurrying away on all fours, is a vivid depiction of an overwhelming reaction to the pressure of a sudden proposal.
Are You Joking?
Questioning the sincerity of the proposer with, “If this is another one of your dumb jokes,” speaks to the importance of context and the history of the relationship in framing such a significant moment.
Yes… Eventually
A non-committal “I will… eventually” leaves the door open for future engagement but lacks the immediate affirmation desired in a proposal. It’s a hesitant step forward, marked by uncertainty.
We Should Break-Up
Choosing a proposal moment to initiate a breakup is perhaps one of the most jarring responses imaginable. It’s a clear indication that the relationship’s trajectory was vastly misread by the proposer.
I Guess…
An indifferent “I guess…” to a proposal indicates a lack of enthusiasm and certainty. It’s a tepid acceptance that hardly sets the stage for a passionate marriage.
Thanks
A simple “thanks” in response to a proposal might acknowledge the gesture but falls short of the emotional response one might hope for. It’s polite, yet painfully inadequate for the gravity of the moment.
Uncontrollable Laughter
Responding to a proposal with laughter and disbelief underscores the unexpected nature of the question. While it may be a nervous reaction, it leaves the proposer uncertain of the seriousness of their offer.
I’m Your Sister
The joke about proposing at a family reunion and being reminded of the familial ties serves as a comedic reminder of the boundaries of romantic proposals. It’s an absurd response that underscores the importance of context in these life-changing moments.