Ryan Sitzman
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100+ English Pick-up Lines to Get Your Crush’s Attention
Imagine you’re at a party and you see the person of your dreams.
You want to go over and say hello, but you don’t know what else to say.
In that situation, you can try using a pick-up line!
A pick-up line is a sentence you can use to start a conversation with someone you want to know in a romantic way.
You won’t really use these phrases with your friends…unless you’re trying to make them laugh. Pick-up lines can be pretty cheesy (embarrassing and amusing).
So, read on for 100+ English pick-up lines you can use to woo (gain someone’s love) your crush—or at least start a conversation with them!
Contents
- 1. What’s your sign?
- 2. You must be tired, because you’ve been running through my mind all day.
- 3. If I said you had a nice body, would you hold it against me?
- 4. Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?
- 5. If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put U and I together.
- 6. Is it hot in here, or is it just you?
- 7. Was that an earthquake, or did you just rock my world?
- 8. Want to go outside with me and get some air? You took my breath away!
- 9. Are you Jamaican? Because “Jamaican” me crazy!
- 10. Here I am. What were your other two wishes?
- More Pick-up Lines in English
- What Is a Pick-up Line and When Do People Use Them?
- Why Should You Learn Pick-up Lines in English?
- And One More Thing...
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
1. What’s your sign?
Ah, the classic pick-up line! Most English speakers would probably say that this line started in the 1960s or 1970s, maybe with hippies that were really into space and astrology.
In this line, the word “sign” means an astrological sign on the zodiac (like Taurus, Pisces, Sagittarius, etc.). Astrological signs are thought to be associated with a person’s personality. So by asking for your sign, it means the asker is interested in knowing more about you.
But be careful, because this line might backfire (have the opposite effect of what you expect). The person you’re talking to could say that their sign is “stop,” like the traffic sign!
2. You must be tired, because you’ve been running through my mind all day.
You probably know the verb “run.” It normally means to walk or jog really quickly. If someone was running all day long, they would be really tired.
That’s the first meaning of this pick-up line, but there’s a play on words. If someone or something is “running through your mind,” it means you’re thinking about that thing or person.
So with this line, you’re basically saying that you’ve been thinking about the other person all day. The person won’t actually be tired just from “running through your mind” because they haven’t physically been running. That’s the joke.
It almost sounds sweet, doesn’t it?
3. If I said you had a nice body, would you hold it against me?
Here’s another great example of a line that plays with the meaning of words.
The phrase “hold it against me” is a synonym of “be angry with me.” For example, if you say that my shoes look stupid, I may be mad, and hold it against you. So, because of your comment, I might not let you come shopping with me next time.
But, as you may know, “hold against” can also mean to hold two things together. So in this case, the speaker wants their bodies to be held against each other, or in other words, to get close and touch.
The double meaning is what makes it funny/clever.
4. Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?
This is one of my favorites, maybe because it seems a bit desperate.
You may have heard of love at first sight—that’s when you instantly fall in love with a person the first time you see him or her.
But with this phrase, the speaker is offering to walk by again if the other person doesn’t believe in love at first sight. This way, if the speaker walks by a second or third time, they’ve created the possibility of “love at second sight” or “third sight,” etc.
5. If I could rearrange the alphabet, I’d put U and I together.
This line plays with homophones (two different words that sound the same). In this case, the letters “U” and “I” sound like the words “you” and “I.” The word “rearrange” means to put something in a different order.
So basically, like all pick-up lines, the speaker just wants to get closer to the listener.
One grammar comment: This example is technically incorrect. You should say “I’d put you and me together,” since here we should use object pronouns (like “me”) and not subject pronouns (like “I”).
Like many instances in English, however, even native speakers don’t always speak 100% grammatically correct. Plus, it would ruin the joke!
6. Is it hot in here, or is it just you?
This line plays with words, but in a different way. Here it takes one common phrase that people might expect, and changes it a little bit.
If you feel hot (or cold), but you’re not sure if it’s just you who feels hot (or cold), then you might ask, “Is it hot/cold in here, or is it just me?”
Here the speaker just replaces “just me” with “just you,” indicating that the listener is hot (attractive).
Also note here that usually the word “hot” does not necessarily mean that you want to get physical, like in some languages. If a person really wants to get intimate (make love), the adjective is “horny.”
In this context, though, “hot” just means attractive, pretty, beautiful, handsome, etc. See—I told you that you might learn some useful new vocabulary!
7. Was that an earthquake, or did you just rock my world?
If someone or something “rocks,” that person or thing is excellent. So, I could say “Wow, you rock!” meaning “Wow, you’re awesome!” If that thing (or person) is really awesome, you can say it “rocks my world.”
The verb “rock” also describes a side-to-side movement (imagine rocking a sleeping baby in your arms, for example). If there’s an earthquake, the ground shakes and rocks.
So in this line, you’re basically saying that the person is really cool because they rocked your world! But you’re using an earthquake so you can make a play on words with the verb “rock.”
8. Want to go outside with me and get some air? You took my breath away!
If you’re at a party and it’s hot or stuffy (hard to breathe), then you may want to go outside for a few minutes to “get some air.”
But in this line, you’re saying that you need the air because the other person has taken your breath (air) away.
They didn’t literally steal your air, though. Here’s the second meaning: When someone takes your breath away, it means that you’re astonished (surprised) by someone’s beauty.
So you’re giving a big compliment when you use this pick-up line.
9. Are you Jamaican? Because “Jamaican” me crazy!
This one plays with vocabulary and pronunciation! A Jamaican person comes from Jamaica, so we can understand the first question.
But the second part of this pick-up line may sound strange at first. If you pronounce it a bit differently, “Jamaican” sounds like “you’re makin'”: You’re making me crazy!
In this case, being crazy is a good thing, meaning that the speaker is in love.
10. Here I am. What were your other two wishes?
I like this one because somehow it’s cheesy and arrogant.
You’ve probably heard stories about a magic bottle or lamp with a genie inside who always gives three wishes.
The idea here is that the speaker thinks he or she is so incredible, they’re like a wish come true. The speaker is suggesting that the listener used one of three wishes to wish for the speaker to appear.
So now the listener only has two remaining wishes—and hopefully the next wish isn’t “Please go away!”
More Pick-up Lines in English
There are plenty of English pick-up lines out there. You can pick your favorites to practice and memorize.
Note that some of these lines include words like “girlfriend” or “Mr.” You’ll want to make sure to change these depending on the situation (“girlfriend” could become “boyfriend” and so on).
Classic Pick-up Lines
- Do you have a map? Because I keep getting lost in your eyes.
- Are you a parking ticket? Because you’ve got “Fine” written all over you.
- Do you have a Band-Aid? I just scraped my knee falling for you.
- Are you from Tennessee? Because you’re the only 10 I see.
- Hi, I’m Mr. Right. Someone said you were looking for me.
- Do you have a name, or can I call you mine?
- Excuse me, but I think you dropped something—my jaw.
- Do you know what my shirt is made of? Boyfriend material.
- Did it hurt? When you fell from heaven?
- I didn’t believe in love at first sight until I saw you.
- Do you know CPR? Because you took my breath away.
- If you were a vegetable, you’d be a “cute”-cumber.
- Excuse me, do you know what time it is? I want to remember the exact moment I fell for you.
- I must be in a museum, because you’re a work of art.
- Are you a broom? Because you swept me off my feet.
- What does it feel like to be the most beautiful person in the room?
- I used to think happiness started with “H,” but now I know it starts with “U.”
- On a scale from one to 10, you’re a nine and I’m the one you need.
- Are you a thief? Because you’ve stolen my heart.
Cute Pick-up Lines
- Your hand looks heavy. Can I hold it for you?
- If kisses were snowflakes, I’d send you a blizzard.
- Quick, someone call God! He’s missing an angel.
- You’re pretty and I’m cute; together, we’d be pretty cute.
- I’m not a photographer, but I can picture us together.
- Are you a camera? Because every time I look at you, I smile.
- I think I’m lost. Can you give me directions to your heart?
- Did you notice? I’m wearing the smile you gave me.
- I don’t know your name yet, but I’m sure it’s as beautiful as you are.
- Even if gravity didn’t exist, I’d still fall for you.
- Can we take a picture together? I want to show my mom what my next girlfriend looks like.
Nerdy Pick-up Lines
- Is your name Wi-Fi? Because I’m feeling a connection.
- Is your name Google? Because you have everything I’ve been searching for.
- You must be the square root of negative 1, because you can’t be real.
- Do you like “Star Wars”? Because Yoda only one for me!
- I’m learning about important dates in history, and I think you’ll be one of them.
- Do you have a time machine? Because when I’m with you, time flies.
- Are you a bank loan? Because you have my interest.
- Are you a scientist? Because you and I have chemistry together.
- Are you a supernova? Because you light up my universe.
- Are you a keyboard? Because you’re just my type.
- If you were a triangle, you’d be “acute” one.
- Are you a time traveler? Because I can see you in my future.
- Is your dad an alien? Because there’s nothing else like you on Earth!
- Are you a phone charger? Because I’m really dying without you.
Funny Pick-up Lines
- Your eyes are like IKEA—easy to get lost in.
- Kiss me if I’m wrong, but dinosaurs still exist, right?
- Want to know what you’d look great in? My arms.
- I’d love to take you to the movies, but they won’t let me bring snacks in.
- I lost my phone number. Can I have yours?
- Do you know what’s on the menu today? “Me ‘n U.”
- Have we met? Because you look exactly like my next boyfriend.
- Can I borrow a kiss? I promise I’ll give it right back.
- What phone number should I use to text you good night?
- I think there’s something wrong with my eyes—I can’t take them off of you.
- Do you have a sunburn, or are you always this hot?
- Hi, I’m [Stephen], but you can call me tonight.
- Would you like a raisin? How about a date?
- Do you need to see my library card? Because I’m totally checking you out.
- I think you owe me a drink—I dropped mine when you walked in.
- When your parents made you, they were really showing off.
- I’ve been told I’m good with numbers. I can prove it if you give me yours.
- See my friend over there? She wants to know if you think I’m cute.
- Something’s wrong with my phone—your number isn’t in it.
- Besides being attractive, what else do you do in your free time?
Cheesy Pick-up Lines
- If we were socks, you and I would make a great pair.
- Can I take a picture of you? I need to show Santa what I want for Christmas.
- Is your name Ariel? Because we “mermaid” for each other.
- Do you know what the Little Mermaid and I have in common? We both want to be part of your world.
- How can I contact Disney? I need to tell them I found their missing princess.
- You’re so good-looking that I literally forgot my pick-up line.
- Can I take a picture of you to prove to my friends that angels exist?
- Are you a campfire? Because you’re hot and I want s’more.
- I’m not religious, but you look like the answer to my prayers.
- Are your parents bakers? Because you’re a cutie pie!
- Are your parents bakers? Because you’re a treat!
- Want to get coffee together? Because I like you “a latte.”
- Life without you is like a broken pencil… Pointless.
- If you were a fruit, you’d be a “fine”-apple, and I would be totally bananas for you.
- I’ve never donated an organ before, but I’d be happy to give you my heart.
- Are your parents artists? Because you’re a masterpiece.
- Excuse me, are you French? Because I think “Eiffel” for you.
- Do you fish? Because you have me hooked.
- Do you know why it’s so dark tonight? Because all the stars are in your eyes.
- Are you an artist? Because you’re really drawing my attention.
- I’m calling the police! It’s got to be illegal to look that good.
- Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears.
- Is your dad a photographer? Because you’re picture-perfect.
- Do you know what you and the sun have in common? You both light up my world.
- Do you have a pencil? Because I want to write our future together.
- Is your dad a boxer? Because you’re a knockout!
- If you were in a book, you’d be the fine print.
What Is a Pick-up Line and When Do People Use Them?
A pick-up line is a line (phrase) that someone says to try to pick up (get the attention of) a stranger who they’re interested in romantically. Pick-up lines are most often used at bars, parties and other social events.
When you’re talking to someone who you’re interested in romantically, it can be called flirting when you give them compliments. That’s a verb, “to flirt,” and a synonym is “to hit on” someone. Be sure to include the “on,” because to simply “hit someone” is very different!
The phrasal verb “pick up” can have a few different meanings. If you pick up someone in this context, it usually means that you get that person to give you his or her phone number or to meet you for a date sometime later.
I said “his or her,” but pick-up lines are usually used more by men. I’m not sure why this is, but everyone can think they’re funny and learn from them.
Pick-up lines have a strange reputation. Most people think the lines are stupid and cheesy (not cool). But at the same time, most people also think the lines are funny, so sometimes they’re used just to make the other person laugh.
Why Should You Learn Pick-up Lines in English?
Even if you’re not looking for love, you should learn these lines because they’re great for improving your vocabulary and fluency.
Most pick-up lines are funny because they play on words and their meanings in an unexpected way. So if you can understand the double meanings of the lines, it’s probably a good indication that your English level is improving.
Pick-up lines can also help you better understand the culture of English-speaking countries. They’re common in movies, TV shows and songs. And if you ever hear one of these at a party or a bar, it’ll be useful to know if someone is hitting on you!
Plus, you can even use a pick-up line as an “ice-breaker” when talking with your friends, or any time you want to have a laugh. Just beware: The person you’re talking to might laugh at you… and then maybe give you their phone number!
There you have it: Enough classic and fun pick-up lines to make everyone laugh the next time you’re practicing your English.
There’s actually no limit when it comes to creative pick-up lines, so you might have fun watching romantic movies or TV series and paying attention to how native speakers flirt in English.
In fact, watching media made for native speakers can also help you learn plenty of other common English expressions that you can use in casual conversation (flirting or otherwise).
One resource for this is the language learning program FluentU.
FluentU takes authentic videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.
You can try FluentU for free for 2 weeks. Click here to check out the website or download the iOS app or Android app.
As you get to know more slang and casual vocabulary, you’ll become more expressive in English—and you’ll know what to say when you see someone cute.
Good luck, and happy flirting!
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
And One More Thing...
If you like learning English through movies and online media, you should also check out FluentU. FluentU lets you learn English from popular talk shows, catchy music videos and funny commercials, as you can see here:
If you want to watch it, the FluentU app has probably got it.
The FluentU app and website makes it really easy to watch English videos. There are captions that are interactive. That means you can tap on any word to see an image, definition, and useful examples.
FluentU lets you learn engaging content with world famous celebrities.
For example, when you tap on the word "searching," you see this:
FluentU lets you tap to look up any word.
Learn all the vocabulary in any video with quizzes. Swipe left or right to see more examples for the word you’re learning.
FluentU helps you learn fast with useful questions and multiple examples. Learn more.
The best part? FluentU remembers the vocabulary that you’re learning. It gives you extra practice with difficult words—and reminds you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned. You have a truly personalized experience.
Start using FluentU on the website with your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes or from the Google Play store.