What men say and what they actually mean

To celebrate the release of must-see comedy What Men Want, starring Taraji P. Henson, Closer’s dating columnist, Rebecca Twomey, decodes men’s minds

How many times have you asked yourself, what is he really thinking? Well, stress no more, as we decipher his responses…

‘I’VE BEEN REALLY BUSY’

After he’s gone AWOL, he’ll use every excuse to justify his absence. Bottom line is, he’s testing the waters to see what other women he can date, and he’ll only get back in touch when he’s bored. No one is too busy to message. If he likes you, he’ll make the effort. Don’t settle for less.

‘YOU’RE OUT OF MY LEAGUE’

Milk this one – he’s giving you a genuine compliment and thinks you’re beautiful. But everyone gives to receive and he’s fishing for an ego boost. Keep him on his toes.

‘I’M NOT LOOKING FOR A RELATIONSHIP RIGHT NOW’

Everyone wants to love and be loved. If he’s not ready to be your boyfriend now, he never will be. He’s either got other girls on the go, wants a casual set-up, or, he’s scared of commitment. You deserve better.

‘YOU’RE GETTING POSSESSIVE’

This is code for ‘I’m not that into you’. Unless you’re stalking him, it’s unlikely you’re being too needy. If you just want to know when you’re next meeting up and he won’t commit, then he’s never going to be your boyfriend.