Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away! It’s also really unkind to let a guy think he has a chance when he doesn’t. Think of it like a band-aid. The sooner you can rip it off, the better.

You could say, “Hey, can we meet up at the new park across town to talk?” Try to avoid talking at your place or his place so you can leave if things get heated or uncomfortable. You may also want to avoid a place that you both frequent so you don’t have bad memories and so you’re less likely to run into them in the future.

You could start up the conversation with something like, “Hey are you busy?” or “Hi, you got a quick sec?” That way you have their attention. You can also send a text if you don’t feel comfortable talking to or meeting up with him in person.

You could try, “I’ve enjoyed talking with you and learning more about you” or “It’s been nice spending time with you the past few weeks. ” You could also try, “I had a lovely evening with you at the restaurant. You were right, the food was great. ”

You could try, “I’m sorry for leading you on and giving you the wrong idea” or “This is my fault. I led you on and I’m sorry. ”

For instance, you could say, “I just don’t see you in that way” or “I’m really not interested in getting into a relationship right now. ”

For example, say, “I don’t feel like this relationship is right for me” instead of, “You’re a nice guy. You’re just not my type. ”

Try, “I’m just not looking to get into a relationship right now” or “I don’t see this is a long-term type of relationship, and that’s what I’m looking for. ”

You could say, “Thank you so much for understanding me. Who says chivalry is dead?” You could also try, “It’s such a relief to be on the same page. Thank you for your patience and understanding. ”

You could try, “I know there’s a guy/girl out there who would be perfect for you” or “Just because I don’t have romantic feelings for you doesn’t mean there isn’t someone out there who does. ”

If you have a lot of mutual friends, try as best you can to minimize contact with him. In time, there may not be any more weirdness between you two and you can be around each other without any awkwardness at all.