You’ve probably heard someone say “I’d swipe right on that!” or joke “Total swipe left.” But what does that actually mean?

These phrases come from dating apps like Tinder, where swiping is how you show interest in someone—or don’t. But over time, the terms have become common slang, even outside of dating. Let’s break it down.

What Does Swipe Left Mean?

Swipe left means “no thanks” on a dating profile. It’s a rejection. When you swipe left on someone’s picture, you’re saying you’re not interested in chatting or matching with them.

Example: You see a profile of someone, read their bio, and realize they’re not a match for you. You swipe left, and their profile disappears. That’s it—they won’t know you passed unless you match later (which won’t happen if they swipe right and you didn’t).

What Does Swipe Right Mean?

Swipe right means “yes, I’m interested.” If you swipe right on someone and they also swipe right on you, it’s a match. That means both people liked each other and can now start messaging.

Example: You like someone’s photo and think their profile sounds cool. You swipe right. If they did the same for you, the app shows a match screen. Now you can chat.

Where Did These Terms Come From?

Where Did These Terms Come From?

Swiping started with Tinder, launched in 2012. Before Tinder, most dating apps used buttons—like or skip. Tinder introduced swiping as a faster, more natural way to go through profiles on a phone.

The gesture quickly became popular. It was easy, fast, and mobile-friendly. Since then, “swipe left” and “swipe right” have stuck—even outside the app.

How These Terms Are Used in Everyday Language

You don’t need to use a dating app to hear people say these phrases. They’ve become part of pop culture, used in jokes, tweets, and even TV shows.

Here are some examples:

  • “I’d totally swipe right on that pizza.” → I really want that
  • “He’s a swipe left.” → I’m not into him
  • “That’s a swipe-right moment.” → Something exciting or likable

People now use “swipe right” to say they like something—and “swipe left” to show disapproval. It’s fast, modern slang.

Do Other Apps Use Swiping Too?

Yes. Lots of other apps have added swipe features, including:

  • Bumble – Similar to Tinder, but women start the conversation
  • Hinge – Swipe-style matching, but focused more on dating seriously
  • POF (Plenty of Fish) – Includes swipe options in some views
  • Even apps like Spotify, food delivery, and shopping apps use swiping to help you sort choices

Swiping is now a common interface in mobile apps. It helps people choose quickly.

Final Thoughts: It’s Just a Swipe—But It Means Something

Swiping left or right may seem small, but these gestures say a lot. They’ve changed how people date—and how we talk. Whether you’re on dating apps or not, knowing what “swipe left” and “swipe right” mean helps you keep up with today’s language.

Now when someone says “swipe right,” you’ll know exactly what they mean.

Still swiping left on confusing slang? Share this guide with someone who’s trying to keep up!