What Do Women Like to Hear? 33 Things They Love Hearing

Words can land softly or stay with someone long after they’re spoken… especially when they feel seen, understood, and genuinely valued. For many women, it’s not about grand declarations or perfectly timed compliments; it’s the small, sincere phrases that touch something deeper. 

A kind reassurance, an honest acknowledgment, or even a simple “I’m proud of you” can shift the entire mood of a moment. What Do Women Like to Hear often comes down to emotional safety, appreciation, and feeling chosen—again and again.

When words carry warmth instead of pressure, they create closeness, trust, and that quiet sense of being emotionally at home.

What women want to hear in a relationship

In a relationship, women often want to hear words that make them feel emotionally valued, respected, and secure—like “I hear you,” “Your feelings matter to me,” or “I’m here with you,” because genuine emotional connection truly deepens intimacy.

33 things women want to hear from their mate

Healthy communication is something that couples start to experience once the honeymoon phase begins to fade. There’s no longer the cutesy conversations or the sweet compliments, but things become familiar, and discussions are deep and genuine. 

By speaking authentically from the heart and offering compliments meant to awe, our significant other learns the same pattern, and the relationship can blossom. Let’s look at the things girlfriends love to hear.

1. “I feel you are my best friend.”

A mate will find the idea of being a best friend, along with the love of someone’s life, a significant compliment. It speaks to the fact that there is immense trust in being vulnerable and sharing everything, from their insecurity to the dreams they see for themselves to secrets.

• Why it works: When you tell a partner that you see them as a best friend, you express that you understand their value and appreciate them. Those are words every woman wants to hear. 

2. “I will always be in your corner.”

Even if you have a healthy dose of self-confidence, it’s nice to know someone supports you. Whether you’re in line for a promotion, or perhaps a new career opportunity, or maybe there’s a situation with a close friend. 

• Why it works: It’s helpful to know there’s someone behind you to boost that confidence when you might have a moment of uncertainty.

3. “I enjoy you as you are.”

You’re wearing your favorite sweatpants with the holes you refuse to get rid of, but last night, you were dressed in the latest from the runway. You are loved for who you are in each situation and not the exterior. 

• Why it works: It makes you feel as though you are viewed and appreciated as the person inside, making the bond grow more robust. These are the compliments every woman wants to hear.

4. “I’m rooting for you.”

Some moments come when a person might insult you or make a rather significant blunder on the job, causing you to experience self-doubt unlike any you’ve felt before, a sense of lowliness. 

These are the moments when a mate says they’re on your team and have a strong belief in your abilities, which can go a long way. What do women like to hear? 

• Why it works: That they’re still relevant when things go wrong. 

5. “I trust in you implicitly.”

Whether you need to work late or go to the market following work, you have no repercussions because your mate feels security and confidence in your making the best choices and not sabotaging the partnership.

• Why it works: There is no judgment or fear of consequences when each person has the deepest level of trust in the other person. 

6. “There is so much to love about you.”

When you expressly tell someone the reasons for loving them, it brings a whole new meaning to the phrase. Feeling that admiration and understanding where it comes from expresses how much worth we put into the other person. 

• Why it works: The fact that we pay so much attention to the little things enough to recognize their value is powerful. That adds to compliments that will melt her heart, and that’s why these things women like to hear from men?”

7. “Thanks”

After putting on airs for the start of the relationship, familiarity and comfort set in, and mates finally start to be their authentic selves. That could mean there are some moments where courtesy goes out the window. 

Still, there should always be some semblance of courtesy as long as there is gratitude for what you do.

• Why it works: It allows for mutual respect, and no one feels taken for granted. Those are things women like to hear.

8. “You are appreciated.”

Knowing that someone, especially a mate, appreciates you from their heart feels good. It makes you begin to notice the efforts they make and start showing appreciation for them. 

• Why it works: This brings a couple closer and instigates a stronger sense of happiness.

9. “Everything will be alright.”

Challenges and stress come to everyone at one point or another, and everyone has some difficulty facing these alone. It can be a sudden loss or a specific hardship. What do women like to hear? The answer is empathy and support.

• Why it works: Reassurance from someone you love at that time will help with the feelings, and until then, they’re there to help you through and help you better manage the situation.

 10. “I wish you were here.”

Sometimes, you can’t be together for one reason or another. Maybe someone needs to travel for work, or one of you has to work late for a deadline on a big project for several weeks. 

That doesn’t mean it doesn’t feel fantastic when you know they miss you and wish you were with them; these are definitely things a woman wants to hear from her man.

• Why it works: The moments you’re away from each other can be good for a partnership, helping you focus on other relationships, look at different goals, and merely take the opportunity to readjust. 

11. Pay attention to adorable behavior and comment

When couples grow together, they appreciate each other’s predictable yet adorable expressions or ways of doing things. It’s worth letting them know that you find these behaviors “cute,” which will bring a bashful smile, albeit repeated behavior, because they realize you enjoy it. 

What do women like to hear – that their mate finds them appealing even after becoming comfortable.

• Why it works: Noticing and commenting on her adorable habits reassures her that she’s still seen and desired, even in familiarity. It reinforces emotional connection, boosts confidence, and makes everyday moments feel special and appreciated.

12. “I’m glad I’m with you.”

What does a woman want to hear? She wants to hear her mate admit that it’s a beautiful feeling knowing they’re partners. You can counter that by expressing the happiness it brings to you that you were lucky enough to find such a mate.

• Why it works: Saying this offers deep reassurance and emotional security. It affirms commitment, reduces self-doubt, and reminds her that she is a chosen partner, not just a convenient one.

13. “You don’t have to do it alone.”

Sometimes, you tend to do everything like a powerhouse, and it’s not necessary to take on the world alone. You need to allow others, including your mate, to help out. When a partner expresses that they’re there to help you, allow that.

• Why it works: It can help a woman surrender and not feel like she has to be a powerhouse and do everything herself. This is great as it gives her the chance to be a truer version of herself.

14. “I was wrong.”

When a mate is big enough to admit that you were right when there is a disagreement, it can strengthen the bond that you share. It takes much humility to make the admission that they’re wrong. 

• Why it works: Establishing healthy communication between you and showing it’s safe to not always be in the winner’s seat allows more open, vulnerable, and honest disputes that can be resolved with respect.

15. “This is not above us.”

Suppose life happens where you have an unexpected change of circumstances, whether it be a move you didn’t anticipate for work or something that alters the course of your plans.

• Why it works: It is helpful when a mate lets you know that no matter how things need to change, you’re in it together and will make the situation work. 

16. “I agree to disagree.”

You won’t always agree on every subject, and that’s okay. You are individuals with differing opinions on specific issues. While vital issues are relatively comparable, decisions can sometimes differ, like wanting a pet. 

This is when you need to find a way to compromise and see things from their perspective.

• Why it works: It shows emotional maturity and respect for her individuality. Agreeing to disagree reduces conflict, validates differing viewpoints, and helps her feel safe expressing opinions without fear of judgment or rejection.

17. “Let me help you.”

Sometimes, you might not be able to do things, but don’t feel comfortable asking. It’s nice when a mate comes along without judgment and asks if they can help. 

These are things women love to hear when they’re in a tough situation, like perhaps the tire is flat and the lug nuts won’t budge. That doesn’t mean she won’t help. Teamwork gets the job done faster.

• Why it works: Offering help without judgment communicates care and partnership. It eases pressure, prevents feelings of overwhelm, and reassures her that she’s supported rather than expected to handle everything alone.

18. “I feel safe with you.”

We’re born with a longing to feel secure and safe. When we feel fear, we run to a safe place as a child. 

• Why it works: Letting a partner know that they bring that sense of safety to you encourages them and gives them confidence and strength.

19. “I apologize and ask that you forgive me.”

Healing can start when a mate asks that you forgive them since they realize the behavior they displayed was inappropriate and hurtful. They intend to make things right. 

• Why it works: That takes a strong character to make such an admission and be willing to accept the repercussions.

20. “I feel inspired by you.”

What a woman wants to hear in the morning is that a mate feels motivated to do their best and chase their dreams based on her encouragement and reminders that doing so is a vital component to growing as a person and being successful in life. 

If you are trying to understand what do women like to hear, let them know that they inspire you every day with their actions and choices. Tell them that even if they fail at times, their drive to better themselves moves you.

• Why it works: Starting the day with affirmation and inspiration builds emotional closeness. It shows that her presence has meaning and impact, boosts confidence, and reinforces that she’s valued not just for who she is, but for how she grows and motivates others.

21. “You deserve a massage.”

What do women like to hear? Sexy things every woman wants to hear after a long, stressful day include the suggestion that she has a nice massage to relieve the tension and pressure, which could lead to a sexy evening before a delicious meal. 

• Why it works: Words that convey that they notice you and want to do things to take care of you. An offer for a massage is both sensual and a caring gesture that women would love to hear.

22. “I can see my future with you.”

When a relationship progresses into exclusivity, and a mate expresses the notion that they see a future between the two of you, those are words women love to hear. A commitment to the future is the answer to your question, “What do women like to hear?”

• Why it works:Often, questions linger regarding life plans, but when men open their hearts and admit their intentions, it’s refreshing for the partner in their life.

23. “I enjoy our conversations.”

As the honeymoon phase ends and comfort level sets in, some mates become intimidated by the fact that conversations take a turn and become more in-depth, meaningful, and intimate. 

When you can carry on this kind of conversation and your partner enjoys the evening, these are things girls like to hear.

• Why it works: Valuing deeper conversations reassures her that emotional intimacy is welcome, not intimidating. It strengthens connection, builds trust, and affirms that her thoughts and feelings are genuinely enjoyed and respected. 

24. “You impress me.”

Expressing an appreciation for the talent someone has, whether it be for a hobby or a specific interest, can boost someone’s self-esteem and even make them try to be a little better. 

When you are trying to understand what women like to hear, one thing you can do is let them know they impress you, as it’s motivating to hear someone say that.

• Why it works: It’s uplifting when a mate offers this sort of heartfelt demonstration of how your talent makes them feel.

25. “You can, but I hope you don’t.”

While most women can live separately and alone and do just fine, their partners hope that they remain interested in spending some time with them at some point, even if it is not full-time.

When a mate recognizes that you’re an accomplished person but hopes that you desire to continue a future together regardless, that’s what women love to hear. While they know life is possible without them, they prefer to do life together.

• Why it works: They feel a feeling of desire for closeness due to their love, respect, and desire for them.

26. “Always remain true to who you are.”

When a mate relays to you that you should stay in tune with your own values and interests aside from taking an interest in theirs, it’s vital to remember that. 

Sometimes, individuals have a habit of pushing some of their practices or routines to one side to participate in a few things with a partner. It’s more important to compromise, share a few things, and be independent regularly. What do women like to hear? Time apart is healthy.

• Why it works: Encouraging her to stay true to herself supports independence and self-respect. It reduces pressure to change, promotes healthy balance, and strengthens attraction by honoring individuality within the relationship.

27. “I want to hear what happened today.”

Some partners don’t actively listen when mates speak, especially when talking about the day’s activities. Many times, they sort of zone out. 

Counting on a mate to pay attention is unusual. What do women like to hear? That a significant other is interested and wants to hear what you have to say.

• Why it works: Asking with genuine interest makes her feel seen and emotionally prioritized. Active listening strengthens trust, deepens daily connection, and reassures her that her experiences matter to you.

28. “I miss you.”

When you’re away from each other during the day, it can make you feel good when a partner greets you with an “I missed you all day.” 

• Why it works: That shows an appreciation and gratitude for you as a person and makes you see your mate with more respect and appreciation.

29. “You are the only one for me.”

What do women like to hear – that they’re enough. They want to have reassurance, especially as time passes and self-doubt begins to seep into them and the partnership. 

• Why it works: These words help to reaffirm confidence and strengthen the bond they share.

30. “I love you.”

No one can get enough of these words. Just because years pass and you believe someone already knows, a woman and a man need to hear those words from the person they love. 

Why it works: It still gives that same itch as it did the first time it was said. What do women like to hear? That the person they love loves them back.

31. “Your dreams are important to me.”

This affirmation goes beyond surface-level support to express a deep investment in her personal growth and achievements.

•  Why it works: It signals that her goals and aspirations are valued within the relationship, encouraging her to pursue her passions with confidence.

32. “I admire your strength and resilience.”

Acknowledging her strength and resilience is a powerful compliment women want to hear, recognizing not just her successes but her ability to overcome obstacles. 

•  Why it works: This is one of the compliments women want to hear, as it fosters a sense of respect and admiration for her character and determination.

Watch this TED Talk by Jasmine Amos, a youth speaker, who shares how respect, communication, and self-worth help build healthy, balanced relationships.

33. “Your happiness matters to me.”

By prioritizing her happiness, you communicate a profound commitment to her well-being, one of the key things ladies like to hear. 

• Why it works: It shows an understanding that the relationship thrives when both partners are fulfilled and happy, making it a central goal.

FAQ

Understanding what women like to hear in various contexts reveals nuances in human communication and relationships. Here’s a concise exploration of these nuances:

• Why do words matter so much to women emotionally?

Words help women feel emotionally safe and understood. They validate feelings and strengthen connection, especially during stress or vulnerability.

• Can actions replace words in a relationship?

Actions matter deeply, but words give them meaning. Hearing appreciation or reassurance helps women fully trust and feel the intent behind actions.

• What happens when emotional affirmation is missing?

Over time, the absence of affirming words can lead to self-doubt, emotional distance, and feeling taken for granted, even if the relationship continues outwardly.

Words that matter

At the heart of every strong connection is the simple need to feel seen, heard, and valued. What Do Women Like to Hear often comes down to sincerity, emotional presence, and reassurance expressed through everyday words. 

Thoughtful phrases can soften difficult moments, deepen trust, and remind her that she is chosen, appreciated, and supported. When words are spoken with care and consistency, they create emotional safety and closeness that lasts beyond the honeymoon phase. 

In the end, it’s not about saying the perfect thing, but about saying the honest thing, with warmth and intention.

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Rachael Pace Author

Rachael Pace is a noted relationship writer associated with Marriage.com. She provides inspiration, support, and empowerment in the form of motivational articles and essays. Rachael enjoys studying the evolution of loving partnerships... Read more and is passionate about writing on them. She believes that everyone should make room for love in their lives and encourages couples to work on overcoming their challenges together. Read less