11 Ways to Respond When a Guy Calls You Crazy (and What He Actually Means)

Co-authored by Lena Dicken, Psy.D and Aly Rusciano

Last Updated: July 29, 2022 References

A guy just told you you’re “crazy”…what’s that supposed to mean? Being called “crazy” can be a simple and fun flirt, joke, or even a serious manipulation. We know replying can be hard, especially when you don’t know what he means, so we’ve put together a list of meanings and best responses for when a guy calls you “crazy” in any situation.

Section 1 of 3:

What does it mean when he calls you crazy?

1
He might like you. This could be his way of flirty with you in a goofy way, especially if you’ve just started dating. Maybe he playfully shoves your shoulder while he says it or sends you a “😉” alongside it. Either way, this might be his way of saying “I’m into you” without actually admitting it.
2
He could be undermining your judgment and emotions. “Crazy” can easily be turned into an insult in an argument, especially if he says it after you’ve expressed an opinion or emotion. It doesn’t matter if he’s your friend, boyfriend, or even your ex. This could be his way of swatting your feelings aside in a casual discussion or an argument. Think about how he said it. Did he scoff and roll his eyes? Did he physically brush past you to avoid the conversation?^{[1]
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3
He might be trying to put the blame on you. Invalidation could be his motive whether you’re dating or going through a breakup. Maybe you’ve gotten into an argument, and after expressing your feelings or concern, he calls you “crazy.” If you’re in a rocky relationship, this could be his way of making you feel like the one at fault, so you’ll take the blame for everything and fess up for something you didn’t even do.
4
He could be trying to manipulate you. Being called “crazy” by your boyfriend or ex can make you second guess everything. If you're questioning your emotions and opinions when you’re around him, he may be gaslighting you. This manipulation tactic is hurtful and extremely damaging whether you’re currently dating or recently broke up. Here are some signs that he could be manipulating you:^{[2]
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- He tells obvious lies.
- He denies doing or saying something, even if you have proof.
- He tells people you’re a liar.
- He turns people you love against you.
- He tells you he doesn’t care one day, but showers you with positivity the next.

Section 2 of 3:

Responding to Your Crush or Boyfriend

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"Crazy about you!" This is a great response if your head-over-heels for him. You’re telling him your behavior is only because you like him without actually telling him you want him! He’s bound to chuckle, and could even blush if you send him a flirty “😉” if you’re texting.
- Try using another word like “wild” or reframing your response with more details like, “Only because I’m in love with you!”
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"Too bad you didn’t read the fine print." Try this flirty response if you’re feeling frisky. This reply alludes to an imaginary contract you both “signed” before seeing each other. Not only is this clever, but it’s also a great way to make him laugh and show off your funny side.
- If you don’t like being called “crazy,” even in a flirtatious way, let him know. He probably doesn’t mean to offend you, so casually give him a list of words you wouldn’t mind him calling you.^{[3]
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"As if you’re not!" Hit him right back with this playful response. You’re not the only “crazy” one in the relationship! This is a clever way to respond if you don’t know what to say or if your heart’s beating too fast for you to think.
- Add in a friendly “😂” or playful “😝” to liven up a text reply.
4
"But you secretly love it." Give this flirtatious reply if you’re feeling in the mood. Maybe you’re cuddling or texting before an evening date. Either way, this is the perfect response if you want to tell him you’re ready to have fun. Smile flirtatiously at him while you say it, or add a “😏” to give him a nudge.
5
"Babe, that’s not the best term to use." Fill him in on why “crazy” can come off as insensitive. He probably meant no harm from it, but it’s best to let him know why the word can have a negative connotation. Here are some things you can share with him and suggest:^{[4]
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- The word “crazy” means a whole lot of things, but society has ingrained in us to use it as a modifier to express extreme emotions.
- Doing this can be stigmatizing and insensitive to those who have mental illnesses.
- Think about what you mean by “crazy,” and use those defining words instead.
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"I know you’re mad, but you don't have to say things like that." Use this response if he’s trying to gaslight you. Gaslighting is a serious manipulation tactic that makes you second guess your emotions and opinions.^{[5]
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Trustworthy Source
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Organization providing lifesaving tools, support, and resources for victims and survivors of domestic abuse
Go to source} When he calls you “crazy,” you may question your own reality. Stand up for yourself because whatever you’re feeling is valid no matter what he says.

Section 3 of 3:

Responding to Your Friend or Ex

1
"I’ll take that as a compliment coming from you." Brush him off with this one-line response. Not only is this a dig at him, but it’s also a quick way for you to acknowledge and end the conversation. If he calls you “crazy” in person, simply say this and walk away. If he texts it to you, reply with this and mute the message thread.
2
"Takes one to know one." This response is sure to make him quiet. Maybe he said the word as the punchline of a joke or meant it as an insult. Either way, responding with a calm and collected tone while shooting his words right back at him can silence any unwanted conversation.
- Be careful when using this response. Calling someone “crazy,” even if they’ve just called you it, can come across as rude or insulting. Sometimes it might be better to just walk away.
3
"Great, happy to hear it!" Show him he doesn’t bother you with this cheery response. Chances are he’s most likely called you “crazy” to get you riled up. Let the comment slide right off you, and put on the biggest smile as if he just gave you the best compliment.
- Add in a passive-aggressive “👍🏽” or “🙂” for a little extra punch.
4
"I could say the same about you." Dish his insult right back at him using this response. Keep it cool while you let this reply roll off your tongue, or throw in a smug “😊” to really set the tone. This is a relaxed way to tell him you’re not interested indirectly.
- Use this as a last resort. If he’s insulting you, the last thing you want to do is stoop down to his level.
5
"That’s rather insensitive, don’t you think?" Call him out on his use of the word “crazy.” This is the perfect response for just about anyone, whether he’s a past friend, ex, or someone just being downright mean. Teach him about why “crazy” can come across as insensitive. Everyone can benefit from a little lesson.
- If you’re texting, send him links to articles that emphasize the importance of changing your terminology.
- Who knows? Maybe he’ll start using the word “wild” instead!

Warnings

If you ever feel unsafe, contact a licensed counselor, therapist, or police officer. Your safety is the number one priority.

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Gaslighting is a form of mental abuse. Reach out for help from someone you trust, like a family member or licensed therapist if you think you’re being manipulated.

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