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Have you ever had that moment when someone says something, and you think, “Exactly! I feel the same way!”? 

We all have. That’s the magic of shared feelings – they connect us, making our big world feel a little smaller and friendlier. 

Sometimes, we express these shared sentiments with a simple phrase: “the feeling is mutual.” 

But this phrase can mean a lot of different things, from shared likes and dislikes to mutual emotions or even a playful tease among friends. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the various meanings behind this common phrase so you can understand it better.

When Someone Says ‘The Feeling Is Mutual’

When Someone Says ‘The Feeling Is Mutual’

1. It Means Agreement or Shared Sentiment 

When someone mentions “the feeling is mutual,” they’re often echoing a shared sentiment. Let’s say a colleague tells you how much they’ve enjoyed working with you, and you feel the same. 

Telling them “the feeling is mutual” expresses your mutual admiration and respect. It’s a concise way of saying, “I feel the same way about you.”

It acknowledges that two people are on the same page, validating the initial sentiment. It’s a way of expressing solidarity or unity without going into lengthy explanations.

[Related: 8 Things It Means When Someone Says They Need Space in a Relationship]

2. Mutual Dislike 

Unfortunately, the phrase isn’t always positive. Sometimes, it can denote a shared negative sentiment. 

Imagine someone confesses they don’t particularly like a certain movie and you happen to agree. Saying “the feeling is mutual” conveys your shared dislike.

It’s a bit like joining forces in your opinion, albeit on a negative front. It showcases that both individuals see eye-to-eye, even when that shared perspective isn’t so rosy.

3. Mirrored Emotions 

Feeling is mutual meaning

The phrase can also hint at shared emotions. Maybe a friend admits they’re feeling down or overwhelmed. 

Telling them “the feeling is mutual” can be a way of sharing that you’re going through a similar emotional state.

In times of sadness or joy, knowing someone else feels the same way can offer comfort or amplify the happiness, proving that emotions can truly resonate between people.

[Read: When Someone Says You Are Tripping: 7 Things It Means]

4. Sarcasm 

At times, “the feeling is mutual” might be employed with a pinch of sarcasm. 

Someone could use it to humorously convey the opposite of what they truly feel, especially in light-hearted banter among friends.

For instance, imagine a friend teasingly says, “I can’t stand you!” with a grin on their face. 

Replying with “the feeling is mutual” adds to the playful exchange, even when both parties know it’s all in good fun and not genuine disdain.

5. Simple Affirmation 

This phrase can be a straightforward affirmation. Think of it as an enthusiastic “me too!” in response to someone’s statement. 

When a friend says they love the rainy weather, and you adore it as well, “the feeling is mutual” is just affirming your shared preference. It’s like saying, “I completely get you.”

[Related: When A Guy Says ‘It Is What It Is’ (7 Things It Means)


How to Respond When Someone Says ‘The Feeling Is Mutual’

How to Respond When Someone Says 'The Feeling Is Mutual'

1. A Simple Thank You

It’s easy to underestimate the power of a genuine “thank you.” But it works wonders, especially when someone echoes your sentiments. 

Upon hearing “the feeling is mutual,” a gracious acknowledgment like thanking them can be the perfect response. It conveys appreciation and acceptance without overcomplicating the conversation.

2. Dive Deeper Into the Topic

When someone mirrors your sentiment with “the feeling is mutual,” it can be the ideal moment to explore the topic further. 

For instance, you might say, “It’s great we feel the same about this. Why do you think so?” This not only keeps the conversation flowing but also builds a stronger bond.

Expressing mutual feelings is just the beginning. When you dig deeper into shared sentiments or beliefs, you uncover more layers of understanding. 

This approach not only creates connection but also enriches the conversation, taking it to new heights.

3. Share a Related Experience 

Experiences have a unique way of connecting hearts. Hearing “the feeling is mutual” is like a cue that the other person is on the same wavelength. 

So, why not share a personal story or experience related to the topic? It could be something amusing, insightful, or just plain relatable.

For instance, after agreeing on a shared love for hiking, recounting a memorable hiking adventure can be both engaging and relevant. 

This approach strengthens the bond and provides more context to your shared feelings, making the chat more lively and personal.

[Also read: What It Means When a Guy Says He Has a Crush On You]

4. Use Humor to Lighten the Mood

Maybe joke about how you both could start a fan club or form a team since you’re so in sync? A little laughter goes a long way.

Playful humor can turn a simple acknowledgment into a memorable conversation. It doesn’t always have to be a witty comeback. 

Even a chuckle or playful tease can add a touch of joy, showcasing that shared feelings can be both profound and fun.


What does it mean when a guy or girl says the feeling is mutual?

This is often a way of saying that they reciprocate the feelings being expressed, whether it’s affection, attraction, or even deeper emotions like love. 

It’s a straightforward affirmation that they’re on the same page emotionally. 

On the other hand, if you had said you didn’t like the other person, then saying the feeling is mutual means they don’t like you either. 

In other words, the meaning of the phrase really depends on what they’re reciprocating. If you say you like him/her and they say the feeling is mutual, it means they like you back. 

What to say when a guy or girl says “the feeling is mutual”?

You could say, “I’m glad to hear that. It’s not always easy to express these feelings, but I’m happy we’re on the same page.” 

This acknowledges the shared sentiment and opens the door for a more profound conversation about your feelings and potential future together.

Another approach is to embrace the moment with a bit of light-heartedness. You could playfully remark, “Well, that makes two of us! Where do we go from here?” 


  • All photos from freepik.com

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Destiny Femi

Destiny Femi is a dating coach whose work has helped transform the love lives of countless people. With a writing style that is both insightful and relatable, Destiny has amassed a following of hundreds of thousands of readers who turn to him for advice on everything from finding the perfect partner to maintaining a healthy relationship. Through his articles he has inspired people around the world to become more confident, authentic, and successful in their dating life.

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