So you have matched with someone on Bumble. That is great news! But now comes the hard part: starting the chat. On Bumble, the first message is a big deal. It sets the tone for what comes next. You may ask, what is an opening move on bumble? Is it just a “hello,” or more? Getting this right helps turn a match into a chat, and maybe a date.
This guide will show you how to make that first contact. We will explain Bumble’s special rules. You will learn who can send the first message and why it matters. We will also give you lots of ideas. Soon, you will be ready to send a great first message. Let’s get you ready to chat! π
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What Makes Bumble’s First Message Different?
Bumble is not like other dating apps. It has a special rule that changes how chats begin. This rule makes the app famous. It changes old dating rules. It makes things feel safer for everyone.
Why Can’t Men Message First on Bumble?
If a man and woman match, the woman must send the first message. This is the app’s main feature. It puts women in control of the chat. It helps stop unwanted messages women get on other apps. This rule lets women start a chat when they are ready. It makes things fair and nice from the start.
Does the “Women Message First” Rule Always Apply?
No, it does not. The rule is only for matches between men and women. In same-sex matches, either person can message first. The same is true for matches with non-binary people. Either person can make the first move. This makes the app open to everyone.
So, What Is an Opening Move on Bumble Exactly?
An “Opening Move” can mean two things on Bumble. It is good to know both. One is just the first message. The other is a special feature in the app.
Is an Opening Move Just a First Message?
Yes, most of the time it is. An Opening Move is just the first message sent after a match. It is the icebreaker. It starts the chat. Bumble’s rules make this first message a big deal. It can start a fun chat. Or, it can let a good match end. So, it is a very important message.
Who Can Make an Opening Move?
Who can make the Opening Move depends on the match.
- Man/Woman Match: Only the woman can send the first message.
- Same-Sex Match: Either person can send the first message.
- Non-Binary Person in a Match: Either person can send the first message.
Knowing who can start the chat is the first step.
How Do Opening Moves Work in Different Types of Matches?
Making an Opening Move is a bit different for everyone. Let’s look at how.
How Do Women Make the First Move in a Man/Woman Match?
If you are a woman and match with a man, it is your turn! You have 24 hours to send the first message. If you do not, the match will expire. This time limit makes you act fast. It pushes you to be active on the app. When you send that first message, you make the Opening Move.
How Do Opening Moves Work in Same-Sex Matches?
If you are in a same-sex match, it is more flexible. You or your match can send the first message. The 24-hour time limit is still there. The clock starts when you match. The first person to send a message makes the Opening Move. Then, the other person has 24 hours to reply.
What About Non-Binary People and Opening Moves?
Bumble is made to be open to all. When a match has a non-binary person, the rules are the same as for same-sex matches. Either person can start the chat. They must send the first message in 24 hours. This lets everyone use the app in a way that feels right for them.
Why Is Your Opening Move So Important?
You might think, “It’s just one message.” But on a dating app, the first impression is everything. A good Opening Move can make someone want to talk to you. A bad one can get you ignored.
Does a Good Opening Move Get More Replies?
Yes. Think about how the other person sees it. They may have many matches. A boring message like “hey” is not interesting. But a funny or smart message will get a reply. Your Opening Move helps you stand out.
What Happens If You Don’t Send a Message in Time?
The 24-hour timer is strict. If no one sends an Opening Move in time, the match expires. It disappears from your chat list for good. This is why you must be active. Send a message if you like someone. The only way to get a match back is to pay for Bumble Premium.
What Are Some Great Examples of an Opening Move on Bumble?
So you know the first message is important. But what should you say? The best messages are personal. They show you looked at their profile.
Should I Just Say “Hey”? (Hint: No!)
Please, do not just say “hey” or “hi.” This is the worst Opening Move. It is boring. It puts all the work on the other person. It shows you did not try hard. You can do better!
How Can I Use Their Profile to Start a Conversation?
This is the best way. Look at their photos. Read their bio and prompts. Find one thing to ask about.
- Did they post a travel photo? “Your Italy picture is great! What was the best food you had there?”
- Do they list a favorite band? “I see you like The Killers. What is your favorite song by them?”
- Do they have a pet? “Your dog is so cute! What is its name?”
This shows you are interested in them.
Are Funny Opening Lines a Good Idea?
Jokes can be a great way to start. But be careful. Not everyone thinks the same things are funny. If you use a joke, keep it light and friendly. A cheesy but sweet line can work well.
What Is a Good Question to Ask as an Opening Move on Bumble?
Asking a good question is a great way to start a chat. It asks the other person to share something. Try to ask questions that need more than a “yes” or “no” answer.
- “What is the most fun thing you did this week?”
- “If you had a superpower, what would it be?”
- “I see you like to hike. What is the best trail you have been on?”
Asking good questions is a key skill. Experts at schools like Harvard University’s Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning study this.
What Is the Opening Moves Feature on Bumble?
Now for the other meaning of “Opening Move.” Bumble has a feature called “Opening Moves.” This tool makes it easy to start chats.
How Is the “Opening Moves” Feature Different From a Regular First Message?
The Opening Moves feature lets you set a question for your matches. You can pick a question from a list or write your own. Your matches will see this question. It gives them an easy way to start the chat. It takes the pressure off of them.
What Is a Good Question to Set as Your Opening Move on Bumble?
A good question for this feature is fun. It should show something about a person’s personality.
- “What is your go-to karaoke song?”
- “What is the best advice you have ever been given?”
- “You can only eat one food for the rest of your life. What is it?”
Pick a question that you really want to know the answer to.
Can Men Use the Opening Moves Feature?
Yes! This is a great part of the feature. In a man/woman match, a man cannot send the first message. But he can set an Opening Move question on his profile. This gives his matches a way to start the chat. It is a good way for men to help begin the conversation.
What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid?
Now you know what to do. Let’s look at a few things not to do. If you avoid these mistakes, you will get more replies.
Why Should I Avoid Generic Compliments?
It is nice to be polite. But a simple compliment like “you’re pretty” is not a great Opening Move. They have likely heard it before. It also just talks about their looks. A message about their hobbies or humor will work better.
Is It Bad to Wait Too Long to Send a Message?
Yes. Do not forget the 24-hour timer! If you wait too long, the match will end. If you like someone, send your Opening Move soon. It shows you are interested and ready to talk.
Conclusion on What Is an Opening Move on Bumble
You came here to learn what is an opening move on bumble. Now you know it is more than a first message. It is your first impression. It is your chance to show who you are. It can make someone want to know you.
It is key to know how it all works. Ask a good question about their profile. This starts a great chat. Avoid common mistakes to stand out. Now you have all the tools you need. Go make a great Opening Move! π
FAQ – What Is an Opening Move on Bumble

What should I avoid when sending my first message on Bumble to increase my chances of a reply?
Avoid generic compliments like ‘you’re pretty’ and wait too long to send the message, as both can decrease your chances of getting a reply; instead, personalize your message based on their profile and respond promptly.
How does the Opening Moves feature differ from a regular first message?
The Opening Moves feature allows you to set a question for your matches to answer, making it easier to start a conversation without the pressure of crafting a message from scratch.
What is an opening move on Bumble, and why is it important?
An opening move can be the first message or a special feature where you set a question for your matches; itβs crucial because it sets the tone of the chat and can influence whether the conversation starts positively.
Who is allowed to send the first message in matches with different gender identities on Bumble?
In heterosexual matches, only the woman can send the first message; in same-sex or non-binary matches, either person can initiate the conversation.
What makes Bumble’s first message different from other dating apps?
Bumble requires the woman to send the first message in a match between a man and a woman, which puts women in control of initiating conversation and enhances safety for users.