How to Talk to Men on the Bus
#1 More Conversation Starters
"That [song/podcast] sounds interesting. What are you listening to? (If you can faintly hear something from his headphones.)"
Demonstrates an attentive and curious nature. It's a direct question about his interests, but only if there's a clear indication of what he's listening to.
"Excuse me, would you mind [moving your bag/making a little room]?"
A direct request that requires him to respond and adjust. While functional, it opens a brief window for interaction.
"I like your [haircut/beard style]. It really suits you."
A direct compliment on his appearance. This is a bit riskier as it's more personal, but if delivered genuinely, it can be very effective.
"(Drop your [pen/keys/ticket] near him, then pick it up.) Oh, thanks! Almost lost that."
A subtle action that creates a natural reason for interaction. He might respond by acknowledging your dropped item, leading to a quick exchange.
"Are you heading to [a specific destination or event that's likely based on the bus route or time of day]?"
A speculative question that shows you're paying attention to the context of the bus ride. It's a mild guess that can lead to an explanation from him.
"(Catch his eye and give a small, friendly smile.) Rough day, huh? Looks like everyone's ready to be off this bus."
Acknowledging a shared experience, like the end of a long day, creates an immediate connection. A subtle smile first makes it less abrupt and more inviting.
"Your [jacket/watch/t-shirt] is really cool. Where did you get it?"
A straightforward compliment on an item of his clothing or accessory. It's specific and shows you've noticed something about him, but in a non-threatening way.
"You look familiar. Have we met before?"
A high-risk, high-reward opener. It's direct and implies a past connection, which can be intriguing or awkward. Only for those feeling bold.
"This traffic is [crazy/terrible] today, isn't it?"
Commenting on a shared, external circumstance (like traffic) is an easy way to commiserate and establish a common ground for conversation.
"Oh, I love your [book/headphones/bag]! What are you [reading/listening to/carrying]?"
This is a great way to show genuine interest and immediately gives him something specific to talk about. It's a compliment without being overly forward and leverages something visible about him.
"It's a beautiful [day/evening] out, isn't it?"
A simple, positive observation about the weather or time of day. It's a gentle opener that invites agreement and can lead to further small talk.
"(If he sneezes or coughs.) Bless you! or Are you feeling okay?"
A polite and empathetic reaction to a common human occurrence. It shows you're aware of your surroundings and him, but in a caring way.
"Is this [stop/area] usually this busy?"
A question about the environment around you both. It's observational and can lead to him sharing local knowledge or opinions.
"I'm trying to decide if I should get off at the next stop or the one after. What do you think?"
Asks for his opinion on a trivial matter. It puts him in a position to advise and can lead to a light-hearted discussion about the best way to get somewhere.
"Sorry to bother you, but do you happen to know what time it is?"
Another simple, practical question. It's universally understood and doesn't put him on the spot, allowing for a quick, polite exchange.
"(Make eye contact and nod slightly when the bus takes a sharp turn or brake.) Whoa! Good thing I was holding on."
A light-hearted reaction to a common bus experience. It's playful and can invite a shared laugh or comment.
"Excuse me, do you mind if I open/close this [window/vent]?"
A polite request that directly involves him and requires a response. It's practical and can open the door for a brief exchange.
"Wow, this bus is [packed/empty] today."
Another general observation about the bus environment. It's low-stakes and allows for a simple agreement or differing opinion.
"Your [backpack/laptop case] looks really durable. Is it good for [travel/work]?"
A compliment on a functional item he's carrying, followed by a question about its utility. It's practical and can lead to a discussion about hobbies or work.
"Do you come on this bus route often? I feel like I've seen you around."
A slightly more direct approach that implies a previous, subtle connection. It's not too aggressive but lets him know you've noticed him.
"This bus is taking forever today, isn't it?"
A slightly more direct complaint about a shared inconvenience. It invites agreement and can lead to a discussion about travel experiences.
"I'm trying to find a good [coffee shop/restaurant] around [this area]. Do you have any recommendations?"
Asks for his local expertise. It gives him a chance to show off his knowledge and potentially engage in a more extended conversation about shared interests.
"Do you know if this bus goes past [a specific landmark/street]?"
A practical question that opens a clear path for him to respond and potentially offer more information. It's a low-pressure way to start talking.
"Excuse me, is this seat [taken]?"
A classic, low-risk way to initiate contact, especially if the seat next to him is free. It creates an immediate opportunity for interaction and can easily lead to further conversation.