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Yahoo
14-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Best dating apps for singles who want something serious
Editors and writers independently select products unless marked Sponsored or Promoted. Sponsored content is a paid ad, while content marked Promoted is chosen by Ziff Davis leadership. We may earn an affiliate commission if you buy through our links. Promoted cards do not include input from individual authors. Gone are the days when people balk at you if you say you met your partner online. Dating apps have irrevocably changed the way we date — much like how social media networks changed the way we interact with each other on the whole. With so many apps, from Bumble to eharmony, it can be difficult to discern which ones to invest in — especially if you're looking for that special someone. According to 2023 findings from the Pew Research Center, one in ten partnered adults (married, living with a partner, or in a committed relationship) met their partner on a dating app or site. For younger and/or LGBTQ people, you're more likely to have met your significant other online: one in five adults under 30 and nearly one in four for LGBTQ adults. SEE ALSO: Broke but looking for love? Try the best free dating apps that actually work in 2025. The same study found that almost half (44 percent) of dating app users said a major reason for using them was to meet a long-term partner. So, if that's you, you're certainly not alone. If you're online, however, you're surely aware of the discourse around dating app culture these days. People are burnt out on dating apps, some opting for IRL events instead. Still, it's undeniable that if you want to date from the comfort and safety of your home, a dating app is the way to do it. If you're, for example, introverted or have difficulty approaching someone in person, an app does have its uses. It's difficult to quantify which dating app is the best, considering users have an array of experiences on them. Some people find their spouses on Tinder, while others are disappointed that their matches are only looking for hookups. That being said, if you're looking for something serious, your best bet is likely an app with a large user base, options for you to indicate what you're looking for on your bio, and filters to weed out who you really want to partner with. There are also apps whose branding is geared towards finding one's ultimate match — like eharmony and Match, both decades-old sites with reputations for helping users find their spouse. Hinge, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel also have a reputation for more "serious" connections. Depending on what relationship you're seeking, you may also benefit from a more niche app. Take one app on our list, SilverSingles, for people over 50. Sure, there are older adults on apps like Tinder and Bumble as well, but you may have more luck finding someone age-appropriate if you're in a space meant just for you. Mashable has researched to pick out a few from the plethora of dating sites (and apps) out there. These options are available for Android and Apple users, so whatever phone you have won't determine your options. In terms of monetary investment, you can use some of these for free (like Tinder and Bumble), while others are more pay-to-play. We've also included some "niche" options, like the aforementioned SilverSingles and Elite Singles, so you have more than the standard buffet of dating apps. Here are the best dating apps for serious relationships:
The Sun
13-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
5 psychological tricks to make someone fall for you instantly and the 4 big conversation mistakes you want to avoid
FED up of never making it past the first date? Four dating and relationship experts have revealed the insider tricks that set pulses racing. From the two colours you should wear, to the words you should effortlessly drop into conversation - there's no reason why a second date - and more - won't be on the cards... 5 5 Red nail theory 'Red is seen as the colour of passion, love and desire [and] a subtle touch, like a red lipstick, can have a strong effect,' on your date, Dating coach and relationship expert, James Preece. 'The red nail theory on social media taps into this idea, where women paint their nails red for the same reason. 'Black is also a strong colour option for a date outfit. It's flattering to most people and adds a touch of mystery and sophistication.' Dr. Lalitaa Suglani, an eharmony relationship and award-winning psychologist, reveals the evidence behind the red nail theory. ' The colour red has long been associated with passion, desire, and attraction,' she says. 'Biologically, red is a powerful visual cue as it mimics physical signs of arousal like flushed skin or lips, which are subconsciously linked to health, fertility, and vitality. 'That's why red often evokes desire and draws attention. 'Culturally, red has also long been associated with sexuality and confidence, think red lipstick, red dresses, red roses. It's a colour we've been conditioned to associate with attraction.' Triangle gaze 'Eye contact is already very powerful when it comes to effective communication, but if you want to turn up the intimacy without saying a single word, try out the triangle gaze technique,' Annabelle Knight, sex and relationship expert at Lovehoney suggests. 'This involves alternating eye contact between their left and right eyes and lips. This is a subtle way to signal romantic interest and instantly creates a sense of closeness between you both. 'But, don't overdo it as it can come across a little creepy - just hold their eye contact slightly longer than normal, and sprinkle in a few soft glances to their lips. 'It's very flirty and can be incredibly effective.' Jessica Leoni, a sex and relationships expert for also recommends the 'triple nod'. 'When your date is talking, use the triple nod - it's a subtle cue that shows you're engaged, encouraging them to open up and feel validated, which adds a feeling of emotional closeness.' Keywords to whisper 'Words can create deeper emotional bonds and desire', Dr. Lalitaa says. But flirting successfully and increasing desire 'aren't just about compliments, they're about making the other person feel something meaningful'. The expert adds: 'It's less about being slick and more about being emotionally engaging.' And there are a couple of words you can drop into conversation when you're next on a date… 5 1. 'Imagine' 'This engages the mind in future possibilities. For example, 'imagine us doing this again on a beach somewhere.'' 2. 'Feel' 'Emotionally charged language increases intimacy. The word 'feel' is a great example of this. 'I love how easy it feels to talk to you.'' 3. 'We' 'We' creates a sense of connection and shared experience. You could say something like 'we're really vibing tonight.'' Jessica also suggests using the other person's name in conversation: 'This works like a charm because using someone's name sparingly throughout a chat triggers feelings of intimacy and attentiveness.' There are also ' certain phrases that land better on a potential new partner compared to generic compliments," Annabelle mentions. 'Such as 'I've never told anyone this before' or 'You just understand me' or 'I always feel better around you', as these invite emotional intimacy, make them feel special, and create emotional memories,' she says. 'Steer clear of heavy or negative topics early on in your talking phase, such as exes and family dramas. Instead, you want your connection to flourish organically with a foundation of joy and curiosity and remember to keep it sincere.' Mystery over mind games 'Some men wait to reply to gauge your interest,' James says. 'But the truth is, dating isn't a competition. You're both trying to find a connection and should both be on the same team. 'If you're free and want to reply, just do it. Being authentic is more attractive than playing hard to get.' James, who is also an author at HeraHaven, has advice for anyone dating someone who is poor at texting: 'Show the communication style you'd like to receive, rather than punishing them. But don't appear too keen. If you're interested in the other person, let them know, and make it clear you have other options. 'Many men enjoy the chase, so give them space to take the lead. If you are too keen, then it might make them question things. So get the balance right.' Whatever you do, avoid displaying 'hot and cold behaviour,' because James says this is 'one of the worst mind games' to play when dating. 'Intense interest one day and ghosting the next. This can be a red flag that they are emotionally unavailable, but they do it to make you desire them more,' he adds. Annabelle offers advice from a female perspective: 'I'm not saying you should be a closed book, but leaving a little bit of mystery can leave people wanting more of you. Conversation sins to avoid Jessica Leoni, sex and relationships expert for shared her advice... Talking too much about yourself – focusing on yourself kills connection. What you want to aim for is balance, and show genuine interest in their life and stories. Interrogation-style questions – rapid-fire questioning can make someone feel like they're in an interview which can be really off-putting. Keep the flow natural and conversational, rather than asking continuous questions. Showing off – confidence is sexy but make sure it doesn't come across as bragging. People find it easier to connect with others who are relatable, and showing off can have a negative effect on the way you're perceived. Using tired pick-up lines or overly rehearsed compliments – it's so important to be sincere because generic flattery often feels hollow. Compliments can be great confidence boosters, but make sure they're specific to them so they don't feel you've said it a million times before. 'Don't hurry to respond to every single message or reveal everything about yourself in your first few interactions; let them discover layers of you over time. 'A little bit of unpredictability creates intrigue - but not to the point that you become frustrating or rude - and intrigue can be irresistible. 'The key here is to balance warmth with just the right amount of distance to leave them curious.' Perfect date length 'The sweet spot for a first date is typically 60 to 90 minutes,' Dr. Lalitaa points out. 'Long enough to build a connection and get beyond surface-level conversation, but short enough to leave space for curiosity and anticipation.' Less than two hours might seem super short but 'it's all about emotional pacing'. 'You want to end a date on a high note (rather than dragging it out) - it keeps energy and interest alive, which is essential for building momentum,' she adds. 'A date that's too long can lead to fatigue or oversharing, while too short might not allow for emotional safety to form.' Instead, you want to focus on 'creating a space that feels enjoyable, emotionally safe, and leaves room for 'what next?''. As for what is the best date, James says many 'men like to do something active like bowling, axe throwing or mini golf, because this gives them a chance to show off their skills and try to impress the other person. Not to mention, highlight their playful side'. On the flip side, 'a simple date like going for a drink is often ideal for the first time meeting up, because there's no pressure and it's much easier to get to know each other in a relaxed environment'. 'That way, you can save the activities for the second date when you know each other slightly better and feel there is already a spark there,' he adds.
Daily Mail
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Expert reveals why young people in age-gap relationships may struggle to go the distance - as Jojo Siwa, 21, and Chris Hughes, 32, spark romance rumours
It's safe to say that nobody had on their 2025 bingo cards that JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes would form such a strong bond during their recent stint on Celebrity Big Brother. Now, relationship experts have had their take on the matter, revealing why such a large age gap - of 11 years - may struggle to work in the real world. Age gap relationships have become a cultural norm in recent years, with a number of high-profile celebrity couples connecting despite their different life stages. From Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Jason Statham (20 years apart) to Sam and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (23 years apart); and Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones (25 years apart) to David and Georgia Tennant (13 years apart), many couples have made it work. 21-year-old singer JoJo - who previously claimed to have started a new genre of 'gay pop' - was in a relationship with Australian influencer Kath Ebbs when she entered the CBB House. But she and Chris, who is 32, raised eyebrows as they grew closer on screen - even cuddling up in bed and exchanging massages. While JoJo and Chris have since insisted their relationship is purely platonic, the 11-year difference between them has been the subject of scrutiny among CBB viewers. Indeed, significant age gaps between couples can be trickier to navigate if the younger party is in their early 20s, says Dr Lalitaa Suglani, relationship psychologist at eharmony. Dr Lalitaa tells FEMAIL that the 'developmental and life-stage differences can be profound' when the younger person in an age-gap relationship is still in their early 20s. 'The brain is still maturing into the mid-20s - which is what research shows us, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which governs long-term planning (it is almost like the manager in our brain), impulse control, and emotional regulation. 'This can mean the younger partner is still exploring identity, boundaries, and values, while the older partner may be more established and sure of what they want and of course this is subject to experiences.' She adds that the disparity between where each individual is at in their lives can create a 'power imbalance'. This imbalance can be 'emotional, financial or experiential' and can 'subtly influence how the relationship unfolds'. 'The younger partner may feel pressure to 'keep up' or defer to the older partner's preferences, sometimes without even realising it.' 'This isn't always unhealthy, but it does require awareness, open communication, and mutual respect to ensure both parties feel empowered and safe,' Dr Lalitaa says. One of the main challenges of being significantly younger or older than your partner is the difference in emotional maturity, expectations and life experiences. 'For example, the older partner may be ready for long-term commitments or more settled lifestyle choices, while the younger partner may still be in a phase of exploration or self-discovery, although I do need to add that this is subject to experiences,' Dr Lalitaa explains. 'Social perceptions can also play a role, the relationship may face outside scrutiny, which can cause strain, especially if one partner feels misunderstood or judged. 'Additionally, subtle power dynamics can emerge, particularly if the older partner takes on a guiding or 'mentor' role, which may blur boundaries.' Despite the challenges, age-gap relationships can still be healthy, successful and long-lasting - as proven by some of our favourite celebrity couples. In 2021, Catherine Zeta-Jones opened up about the 25 years between her and Michael Douglas, to whom she has been married since 2000. She said: 'With any relationship, it wouldn't be normal if there weren't any ups and downs. 'The constant is love and respect. We've never, ever lost our sense of humour, and we enjoy each other's company.' Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has also spoken candidly about her 20-year difference with Jason Statham. The couple have been together since 2009 and share two children, Jack, eight, and Isabella, three. They met when Rosie was 22 and Jason was 42. In an interview with Glamour, Rosie said the best part of being with an older man is his knowledge and strength, which she described a 'really inspiring and attractive'. The model added: 'We have a connection that has nothing to do with age. 'Work comes and goes, but if you have someone at home who thinks you're the greatest person in the world, that keeps you going.' Dr Lalitaa says that the key to a healthy age-gap relationship is staying attuned to one another's emotional needs, as well as having mutual respect and clear boundaries. 'Both individuals need to reflect honestly on why they're drawn to the connection, and whether both voices are equally heard in decision-making. 'If the relationship is built on shared values rather than emotional dependence or imbalance, it can thrive like any other.
Newsweek
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Gen Z's Gender Political Divide 'Creating Problems' for Their Dating Lives
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. America's youngest adult generation is growing more politically divided along gender lines—and that divide appears to be influencing how they approach romantic relationships. As young women lean liberal and young men trend conservative, dating across party lines is becoming increasingly uncommon. While older generations, including millennials, appear more willing to bridge ideological gaps, Gen Z is redefining what constitutes a deal-breaker. Why It Matters If young adults increasingly refuse to form relationships across ideological lines, that could reinforce echo chambers, reduce empathy and limit the potential for political compromise in everyday life. As romantic relationships often influence long-term community ties and even voting behavior, the polarization seen in dating may contribute to deeper societal divisions over time. Sociologists and political scientists warn that when personal identity becomes tightly aligned with partisanship, it can erode trust in mixed-ideology households and communities. And with Gen Z expected to become the largest voting bloc in the next decade, their unwillingness to bridge political divides—romantically or otherwise—could have lasting effects on the nation's political cohesion. In this photo illustration, the dating app Tinder is seen on the screen of an iPhone on August 14, 2018 in Miami, Florida. In this photo illustration, the dating app Tinder is seen on the screen of an iPhone on August 14, 2018 in Miami, To Know Recent data from eharmony's 2025 Dating Diaries found that 28 percent of Gen Z singles said differing political views could cause them to turn down a date—compared with 21 percent of millennials. While the majority still say they'd consider a partner with opposing views, the gap suggests Gen Z has less political flexibility in their romantic lives. This comes amid a broader cultural shift. An October poll from the New York Times and Siena College poll showed a striking 51-point gender divide among Gen Z voters. Women aged 18 to 29 favored former Vice President Kamala Harris over President Donald Trump by 38 points, while men in the same group favored Trump by 13 points. No other generation exhibits a gap this wide. In an earlier New York Times column, opinion writer Jessica Grose explored how this political mismatch may translate into real-world dating behavior. Some people said that extreme views—on either side—often deterred them from pursuing relationships. And while political identity is not always the first filter for young singles, for some, particularly around polarizing issues like abortion, it's non-negotiable. According to eharmony's 2025 report, while the majority of singles say they prioritize core values and emotional connection, a significant minority—especially younger daters—are drawing hard lines around ideological compatibility. What People Are Saying Wendy Walsh, psychology professor at California State University Channel Islands and ambassador for told Newsweek: "In the last few years, males have become increasingly conservative, and the most liberal and progressive group in America is young females. This political polarization is already creating problems in the dating scene. People in their 20s are either not dating at all, or competing for a very small group of people who match their political views." Sean Leonard, nurse practitioner at Healthy Life Recovery, told Newsweek: "As a psychiatric nurse practitioner working closely with younger adults, I've noticed something striking with Gen Z—politics is no longer just a civic matter; it's personal, deeply tied to identity, and often a non-negotiable factor in relationships. For many in this generation, political values are seen as extensions of core beliefs—how someone views social justice, climate change, reproductive rights, or mental health policy speaks volumes about who they are as a person." Bryan Driscoll, an HR consultant who focuses on generational differences, told Newsweek: "Gen Z doesn't separate politics from dating because they can't. They've watched their rights gutted. Roe was overturned before some of them could even vote. Their LGBTQ+ friends are being targeted by lawmakers with nothing better to do. Climate change is on fire, college costs more than an Italian sports care, and every entry-level jobs wants five years of experience for minimum wage. They're not going to swipe right on someone who calls all this 'just a difference of opinion.'" What Happens Next In the wake of the 2024 election, political polarization among Gen Z could deepen, and dating norms may shift further in response. Apps and platforms may cater more explicitly to ideological preferences. Already, some services are experimenting with filters that match users based on political beliefs. "Political behavior used to be a private thing. Husbands and wives went into the privacy of their own voting booth and silently made their choice. Then everyone came together under one flag," Walsh said. "But today politics has become a school of personal identity. A way of saying this is who I am and I cannot accept anyone who thinks differently from me." At the same time, researchers and dating experts say it's worth watching whether this generation will maintain rigid political boundaries in long-term partnerships—or whether shared life goals, financial compatibility and emotional intimacy will take precedence over red and blue lines. "Long-term, this shift could lead to more like-minded partnerships, but also more isolation between groups that think differently," Leonard said. "As a mental health provider, I see the value in shared values—but I also caution against rigidity. Relationships benefit from openness, dialogue, and curiosity. If we wall ourselves off too early, we risk missing out on personal growth—and meaningful connection."
Yahoo
13-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This is why you keep getting flaked on dating apps, according to experts
Move over, ghosting. Flaking is the newly preferred method of cutting ties with a match on dating apps, with victims calling it a "flaking epidemic". Gone are the days when you might start a conversation with someone on a dating app, only to suddenly never hear from them again. Users are now reporting that they are building relationships and making plans with potential romantic interests over the apps, only for the other person to suddenly cancel at the last minute. Getting flaked on is becoming an increasingly common experience on dating apps, according to users discussing the issue on Reddit. Understandably frustrated, one dating app user asked: "Is it just me, or is there a flaking epidemic on dating apps? "At this rate, three out of five times these past couple of months, my friends are getting flaked on in Hinge, Coffee Meets Bagel and Bumble dates. And these are HOT people! What's going on?" Other Reddit users added their own experiences and opinions to the forum, with one person wondering: "I get protecting your own mental health and setting boundaries for your time, but what about the other person's time/mental health that you made plans with?" Another user suggested that the reason so many people are flaking out on dates could be due to "app fatigue". "This stuff was fun five to 10 years ago, but I'm just kinda… over… the whole app pleasantries," they said. "I think it's worst since Covid, because a lot more has shifted electronically (eg. Zoom meetings) so I'm pre-exhausted on online personal interaction from work. "These are people I'd actually like to meet, but it's so exhausting and it feels like work. I'm going back to being more chatty in the real world." According to Dr Lalitaa Sugliani, relationship expert for eharmony, there is indeed a problem with flaky behaviour becoming more common on dating apps. She suggests that one of the reasons behind the rise of flaking could be "the abundance of choice and the paradox that having too many options can lead to decision fatigue". "This in turn leads to exhaustion and freeze state, making it harder to commit to one person or follow through on plans," she explains to Yahoo UK. "At a deeper level, our attachment styles and past experiences can also shape how we engage in these digital spaces, influencing our ability to commit and follow through." Sometimes, flaky behaviour can stem from a crisis of confidence. From the perspective of someone who is having confidence issues, there may be uncertainty as to how they'll be perceived in real life after building rapport with the other person online, Dr Sugliani says. "Anxiety surrounding rejection or the pressure to live up to curated online personas can trigger avoidance behaviour," she adds. "Some people may also struggle with emotional readiness, leading them to have dating conversations without actually being prepared to connect deeply or meet in person." Another reason flaking might be becoming more common is because some people use dating apps for a quick dopamine boost, rather than to foster a long-term relationship. "For some, dating apps serve as a temporary escape or a means to satisfy a need for connection without building a long-term relationship," Dr Sugliani says, emphasising that everyone has different needs and wants when it comes to looking for love. "Immediate gratification often takes precedence, leading to impulsive decision-making," she adds. This means that some people might feel initially excited about getting a match on an app, but quickly lose interest when the novelty wears off or another connection seems more appealing. For many singletons, dating apps just aren't working in the pursuit of love. Data from Ofcom, published in November 2024, found that dating app use is declining in the UK, particularly as younger people are increasingly turning to in-person meet-ups to find The One. The communications watchdog found that the top four dating apps in the UK have been steadily losing users since 2023. Tinder lost 600,000 users, while 131,000 users fell out of love with Hinge. Meanwhile, Bumble's user base fell by 368,000 and Grindr lost out on 11,000 users. "Some analysts speculate that for younger people, particularly Gen Z, the novelty of dating apps is wearing off," said Ofcom in its annual Online Nation report. Dr Sugliani adds that it's important for dating apps to prioritise connecting people based on personalities and values in order to foster deeper compatibility and more meaningful relationships, instead of encouraging users to chase "short-term excitement". "This means it is easier to engage with people who are genuinely aligned with what you're looking for," she says. Lonely hearts looking for love are also becoming more invested in authenticity. "When individuals portray their true selves and communicate their intentions honestly, they are more likely to attract partners and create meaningful connections, but it is for them to also know what they are looking for," Dr Sugliani explains. "Being clear about what you're looking for and respecting the boundaries and feelings of others creates a healthier and more respectful dating culture. "It is also important to remember we're not mind-readers and what is authentic to you may be different to a partner. Good communication starts with being aware of what is going on in your own head so you can get this across to a partner." Read more about sex and relationships: Six health benefits of staying single (Yahoo Life UK, 3-min read) Sex can help men live longer - and has important health benefits for woman too (Daily Record, 2-min read) Sick Of Dating Apps? 4 Couples Share Their IRL Meet-Cute Stories (HuffPost, 4-min read)
