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7 awesome lines to escape a really bad first date

Not every first date will leave you wanting a second. Here are some no-dishonesty-needed exit lines to use when you're hoping to end both the date and any chances at a relationship."It was so nice to meet a new friend." Use the f-word ("friend") liberally when ending a date that has no potential for a second. Of course, if you don't like the person at all, there’s no need to friend-zone."It was
bad first date
bad first dateNicolas McComber/Vetta/Getty Images / Today

Not every first date will leave you wanting a second. Here are some no-dishonesty-needed exit lines to use when you're hoping to end both the date and any chances at a relationship.

"It was so nice to meet a new friend." Use the f-word ("friend") liberally when ending a date that has no potential for a second. Of course, if you don't like the person at all, there’s no need to friend-zone.

"It was great meeting you. Drive safe." Keep your exit polite and respectful, but sterile. Don't hint that you're looking forward to doing it again if you're not. Make sure your body language doesn't send mixed messages, either. Shake his hand, and swerve to avoid a kiss.

"I think you’re great -- and I love your sense of humor—but I don't think we're a good fit." "You need someone who's ready for a more serious relationship. But thanks for a great night." Be generous and direct. Don't play games.

"You know who you should date? My old roommate. She's a huge Tarantino fan, too!" If you're setting your date up with another date, he'll clue in that you're not interested.

"Look at the time…" If you pre-establish an end time to the date, as is often recommended for first dates, you'll know when it's over and can announce it if the other person doesn't seem interested in saying goodbye.

"Hi, Julia! Pull up a chair!" If you're not confident enough to end a date, and you're concerned that it might go on forever, have a friend stop by at the date location at a certain time to help you make your exit. It's less obvious than the phone-call-from-a-friend move, and ensures that you have a safe ride home, too.

"I'm sorry to do this, but I really have to go." Make plans for immediately after your date. If the date is a success, you can always schedule a second one. But if it's a flop, you know you have to leave—and won’t be making up a lame excuse as a getaway strategy.

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Why Women Should Stop Apologizing for Their Single Status 
10 Things You Need to Know About the Person You're Dating
Three Mistakes Career Women Make on the First Date

A version of this story originally appeared on iVillage.