90 Conversation Starters for Exes

Talking to an ex can feel like walking on thin ice, but it’s a common part of moving on. Whether you’re looking for closure, a fresh start, or just trying to keep things polite, having the right conversation starter can make all the difference.

So, if you’re wanting to rebuild bridges or just say hello, this guide’s got you covered. From heartfelt apologies to friendly catch-ups, you’ll find something here to ease that first step. 

Ready to ease the tension? Keep reading!

Closure Conversations

1. Can we talk about what went wrong from your perspective?
2. I feel like we never really talked about why things ended. Can we do that now?
3. What lessons have you learned from our relationship?
4. Do you feel like we both gave it our best shot?
5. Is there anything you want to ask me about our breakup?
6. I’ve been wondering if you felt the same way I did at the end.
7. Do you have any regrets about our relationship?
8. How do you think our relationship changed over time?
9. What do you think we could have done differently?
10. Do you think we should have ended things sooner or later?
11. How did you feel right after we broke up?
12. Do you have any lingering questions about us?
13. Was there a moment you knew it was over?
14. Looking back, what stands out to you the most about us?
15. Do you feel more at peace with everything now?

Apologies and Forgiveness

1. I realize now how much I hurt you, and I’m really sorry.
2. Can we talk about what happened so I can apologize properly?
3. I want to make amends for what I did. Can we discuss that?
4. Are you open to forgiving me for my mistakes?
5. I’ve been thinking about our past, and I want to ask for your forgiveness.
6. I regret how things ended and want to apologize.
7. Can we talk so I can clear the air and apologize?
8. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me one day.
9. I’m sorry for any pain I caused you.
10. Can we have a conversation about the things I did wrong?
11. I hope you know my intentions were never to hurt you, and I’m sorry.
12. I’ve worked on myself and understand my mistakes now.
13. I want to apologize for the things I said in anger.
14. Please forgive me for not being the partner you deserved.
15. I’m truly sorry for how I let you down.

Clearing Misunderstandings

1. I think there were some things we misunderstood about each other.
2. Can we clarify a few things about our past relationship?
3. I feel like we miscommunicated a lot. Can we sort that out?
4. What do you think were the biggest misunderstandings between us?
5. Let’s talk to clear up any confusion we had.
6. I want to understand your side of the story.
7. Can we discuss what happened to avoid any more misunderstandings?
8. Do you think we misread each other’s intentions?
9. I feel like there were a lot of things left unsaid.
10. Was there something you wanted to ask me but never did?
11. I think we both misinterpreted some things. Let’s talk about that.
12. Can we clear up any assumptions we made about each other?
13. What do you think caused most of our arguments?
14. Do you agree that we had communication issues?
15. Let’s talk about what we misunderstood to find some clarity.

Rekindling Relationships

1. Have you ever thought about us getting back together?
2. Do you miss the good times we had?
3. What do you think about giving us another chance?
4. I’ve been thinking about you and wondered if you feel the same.
5. Could we try to see if there’s still a spark between us?
6. Do you ever imagine what it would be like if we were still together?
7. How have you changed since we broke up?
8. Do you think we’ve both grown and could make it work now?
9. What do you miss most about our relationship?
10. How would you feel about going on a date again?
11. Do you think we’re more mature now and could handle things better?
12. Could we start fresh and see where it goes?
13. I’ve realized how much you mean to me. Can we talk about that?
14. Do you want to see if we can reignite what we had?
15. How do you feel about reconsidering our relationship?

Transitioning to Friendship

1. I’d like to stay friends. How do you feel about that?
2. How do you envision us as friends?
3. Can we support each other as friends now?
4. I want you in my life, even as just a friend.
5. How can we make this transition to friendship work?
6. What do you think we can do to ensure our friendship is strong?
7. Do you think we can hang out as friends without it being awkward?
8. Can we set some boundaries to make our friendship work?
9. Can we keep in touch and support each other as friends?
10. How do you feel about us being friends who can confide in each other?
11. Would you be okay if we just stayed friends from now on?
12. I think we could be great friends. Do you agree?
13. Can we focus on the positive things and stay friends?
14. How can we ensure our friendship is healthy and respectful?
15. Do you want to catch up some time as friends?

Neutral Catch-Ups

1. Hey, it’s been a while. How have you been?
2. How’s everything going in your life these days?
3. What have you been up to lately?
4. Have you made any exciting plans recently?
5. What new hobbies have you picked up?
6. How’s work or school treating you?
7. Have you traveled anywhere interesting recently?
8. Seen any good movies or read any good books lately?
9. How’s your family doing?
10. Any new achievements you’re proud of?
11. How’s your pet (if they have one) doing?
12. How’s your health been?
13. Met any interesting people recently?
14. How are things in your current neighborhood?
15. Any new goals or dreams you’re working towards?