What do you reply when someone just says hey?
Short answer
Don't reply with just "hey" back — it strands you both. Either match their energy and add a question, or skip the small talk and open with something specific (a profile callback or a playful would-you-rather). Give them an easy, fun hook to respond to.
When someone just sends you "hey," you have two solid options. You can match their energy and say hey back, then add a question to get things moving. Or you can skip the pleasantries and jump straight into something interesting.
Ask about something from their profile, share something funny, or throw out a playful would-you-rather question. The worst move is replying with just "hey" back and nothing else because then you are both stuck.
On a dating app, lead with playful curiosity — people get a wall of low-effort "hey" messages, so anything specific stands out. With someone you already know, a warm callback to your last conversation lands better than a cold opener.
Example replies to "hey"
Match + escalate
"Hey yourself — what's been the highlight of your week so far?"
Playful confidence
"Perfect timing, I was about to text you first. What are you getting into this weekend?"
Low-stakes game
"Hey! Quick compatibility test: pineapple on pizza, yes or no?"
Profile callback
"Hey — I need the story behind that hiking photo before this goes any further."
Dating-app specific
"Be honest — is your dog the main reason people swipe right, or do you get some credit too?"
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