The expression refers to techniques used within the Hinge dating application to initiate conversations with individuals whose profiles lack compelling information or personality. These techniques often involve creative questions or statements designed to elicit a response and break through the perceived lack of engagement offered by the profile itself. As an example, rather than a generic “Hey,” a user might employ a question targeting a specific, albeit mundane, detail gleaned from a photo.
The importance of such strategies lies in their potential to uncover hidden depths and personality traits not immediately apparent in a profile. They offer a means to bypass initial superficiality and establish a more genuine connection. The proliferation of discussions surrounding these techniques, particularly on platforms like Reddit, underscores their value within the online dating landscape where first impressions are critical and limited information is prevalent. Historically, the need for inventive conversation starters has grown in tandem with the increasing saturation of dating apps, forcing users to differentiate themselves and their outreach efforts.