How do you break up with someone you love over text?

Let’s cut to the chase: Dating is really hard. But dating in 2020? Virtually impossible. Between a global pandemic, the dumpster fire that is American politics, and Taylor Swifts’ surprise album (like what the actual f), emotions are at an all-time high.

But that isn't an excuse for common courtesy to go out the window when it comes to communication. Because unfortunately, for far too many in the dating world, this happens anyway with what we call “ghosting.”

This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Psychotherapist and relationship expert Rhonda Richards-Smith says people ghost mainly because either 1) The thought of hurting someone’s feelings makes them too anxious to even send a text, or 2) They don’t know how to cope with the feelings that come from a breakup.

“Unfortunately, when lots of time and energy is being spent coping with loss or multiple crises, sending a breakup text may simply be too much for an individual to manage at that time.” (Valid, but still not okay.)

Sure, there may be a few reasons to ghost (concern about your safety being the main one), but as an adult, majority of the time, it is totally inexcusable to leave someone on read when it takes, like, 15 seconds to compose a simple text. Maybe you just need some help—anti-ghost training wheels, if you will.

So in an effort to make ghosting extinct by the end of the year, here are 27 different ways to tell someone you aren’t interested without just leaving them on read. You're welcome.

1. For the person who refuses to wear a mask over their nose:

“I am doing everything I can to keep myself and my family healthy, including taking all the necessary precautions. At this time, I think it's best we part ways. It's been really fun getting to know you!”

or

“Thanks for the coffee yesterday, it was fun. But unfortunately due to your general lack of care for other people’s health, I don’t think it’s going to work.”

2. For the person whose idea of a "socially-distant bubble" is 100 people:

“I have really enjoyed getting to know you, but I have to be honest with you. I'm not comfortable socializing with anyone that's not following public health guidance to prevent the spread of COVID. It's been great learning more about you, but I think it's best if we end things here.”

or

“You seem really cool but our ideas of staying safe are drastically different so it’s not gonna work.”

3. For the person who thinks COVID-19 is a hoax:

“My health is a major priority for me and I have serious concerns about the impact that COVID-19 has had on myself, my family and friends. I know that you do not share these concerns, which leaves us at a crossroads. Because of your stance on this, I think it's best we part ways. I hope you can understand.”

or

“Thanks, but no thanks.”

4. For the person who only wants a booty call:

“It’s been cool getting to know you, but I am looking for more than just a hookup. Good luck with everything!”

or

“I've been giving it some thought and I think that we have different priorities when it comes to what we are looking for in a relationship. I know a physical connection is important to you, but this alone doesn't meet my needs at this time.”

5. For the person you went on one date with who keeps following up:

“It was really nice meeting you, but I just don’t see this working.”

or

“It was nice meeting you, but I am not interested. Thanks for dinner!”

6. For the person you went on a few dates with and just aren’t interested in:

“I loved spending time with you, but I don’t think it’s going to work in the long run.”

or

“I had a lot of fun with you, but I don’t think we’re compatible.”

7. For the person who feels more like a good friend than a romantic partner:

“It’s been super fun hanging out with you, but I think I get more of a friend vibe between us. I would love to still hang out, if you’re down!”

or

“I think you’re really cool but don’t think I’m in the same place as you are right now. I’d love to continue hanging out as friends though!”

This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

8. For the person who likes you more than you like them:

“I think you’re great, but we just want different things and I don’t think it’s going to work.”

or

“It’s been nice getting to know you, but the more time we spend together, the more I realize we’re just on different pages.”

9. For the person who has a finance job, sleeps on a blow-up mattress, and only texts after midnight:

“I have a lot going on right now and just need to focus on myself. Thanks for understanding!”

or

“Sorry, your lifestyle is a little too chaotic for me—I’m not interested!”

10. For the person who just really wasn’t good in bed:

“Hey, it’s been a while since I’ve had this kind of intimacy with someone and it made me realize I’m not super ready for a relationship, I’m sorry!”

or

“You’re great, but I don’t really feel a romantic connection.”

11. For the person whose politics are drastically different than your own:

“I am so sorry, but with your sun in Virgo and mine in Gemini, it’s just not going to work for me.”

or

“Sorry, but I literally cannot date someone who voted for [insert candidate]. We have completely different values. It’s a no for me!”

12. For the person who isn’t as cool as the other person you recently went on a date with:

“To be honest, I think you’re really sweet, but I met someone else and I want to focus on that. Sorry!”

or

“Thanks for hanging out the other night, but I have to be honest and tell you I have to see where things go with this other person.”

13. For the person you’ve led on for far too long because you were trying to decide if you liked them:

“I am really sorry to do this, but the more we hang out, the more I realize the spark is missing between us. I hope you understand.”

or

“I’m sure you feel the same way, but as much fun as I’ve had the past few weeks, I don’t see this working out long-term.”

14. And finally, for the person who wasn’t who you thought they were (i.e., they turned out to be an asshole undeserving of your time):

*Block number*

Isabel Calkins Isabel is a full-time freelance writer covering all things lifestyle, sex, and wellness.

How do you say goodbye to someone you love through text?

Texts To Send If It Was A Mutual Breakup I'm glad we both agree that this relationship isn't going where we want it to. I wish you all the happiness in the world with someone else, but it's time for us to say goodbye for good. Hey [Ex's Name]. I'm really glad we're both on the same page and we agree this is the end.

How do I break up with someone I love?

What to Say and How to Say It.
Tell your BF or GF that you want to talk about something important..
Start by mentioning something you like or value about the other person. ... .
Say what's not working (your reason for the break-up). ... .
Say you want to break up. ... .
Say you're sorry if this hurts. ... .
Say something kind or positive..

Is it better to break up over text or phone?

If for whatever reason your partner is making you feel threatened or unsafe, a text message might be the best way to let them know that you're done. “Your method of communication during a breakup should always come second to your safety, so make the choice that is best for your particular situation,” Olavarria says.

Why breaking up over text is OK?

In those instances, text is better because it allows less room for conversation. "The ideal breakup text will act as a statement: Say what you are doing, why you have reached this conclusion, and remember to only speak on behalf of yourself, leaving no room for a dialogue or defensiveness," Leigh Trescott says.