Online signals are different from in-person signals. When you're chatting on the app, you've got to read between the lines. Here's what actually means they're interested in hooking up.

They're responsive and engaging. If someone's giving one-word answers or taking hours to respond, they're not that into it. When someone's interested, they keep the conversation going, ask questions back, and reply relatively quickly.

They match your energy. If you get a bit flirty and they flirt back, that's a green light. If they get playful and tease you, they're testing the waters. If every slightly flirty comment gets a serious or awkward response, they're probably not looking for what you're looking for.

They're comfortable with suggestive topics. Not saying you should immediately get sexual in the chat, but if the conversation naturally goes in a flirty or slightly suggestive direction and they're into it, that's usually a good sign.

They're actually trying to meet up. The biggest signal someone's interested? They want to see you in person. If they're making excuses why they can't meet or being vague about plans, they're probably just bored and chatting for entertainment.

In person, the signals are more obvious but people still miss them. Physical contact is the big one. If you're talking and they touch your arm, lean in close, or find excuses to be physically near you, they're interested.

Eye contact matters. If someone's holding eye contact, especially with a smile or while biting their lip, yeah they're into it. Looking away constantly or scanning the room? Not interested.

They suggest going somewhere more private. This one's pretty clear. If you're out in public and they suggest going back to their place or yours, they're not inviting you over to watch Netflix and actually just watch Netflix.

They're asking about your situation. Questions like "do you live alone" or "what time do you need to be up tomorrow" are usually signs they're thinking about hooking up.

What's not a signal: someone being nice to you. Being friendly is not flirting. Laughing at your jokes might just mean your jokes are funny. Working out whether someone's interested takes looking at multiple signs, not just one thing.

The best way to know for sure? Just be direct. You don't need to be crass about it, but a simple "I'm having a good time, want to get out of here?" or "should we continue this somewhere more comfortable?" works great. The worst they can say is no.

And if you get a no, respect it immediately. No convincing, no asking twice, just move on. There are plenty of other people who are interested.

Trust your gut. If you think someone's interested, they probably are. If you're unsure, they're probably not. People who want to hook up make it pretty obvious.