what's the etiquette when you don't want to go on a second date?

[Sandra1984]

I met this guy on Tinder, went for a coffee, he was nice but a) Not as handsome as his profile pics b) he was very boring. After the date he's been messaging me and asked what am I doing Christmas Eve and if I want to go for dinner with him. I'm not attracted to this guy so have no intention to ever see him again. I haven't replied either because honestly I don't know what to reply. He's a nice guy and was nice to me so I believe ghosting or not replying is a bit rude. I want him to move on and I don't want to be a dick.

What is the etiquette in this case? A short message on my part stating "it was nice meeting you but I don't feel the chemistry/have much in common etc...?"

Thanks for your feedback. I'm of the opinion that you should treat people the way you want to be treated.

Yep, that's exactly what I'd say. Most people took it well. X

Send the message, it’s the decent thing to do

You need to reply. Just send what you wrote above.

Yes. Say that and don’t keep him hanging.

"It was lovely to meet you but I don't think there's enough chemistry to take this forward, good luck with your search"

Yep, send a message along those lines and give a vague reason that can't be argued against. "The chemistry was just not there for me" is perfect. Please don't ghost.

Send a message, be polite, don't wait too long, and others have suggested suitable words.

You really shouldn't have to ask this.

Of course you should send a nice message saying he's not the one for you etc.