5 best ways to react when you don’t like your partner’s gift

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Receiving a gift you don’t like can be awkward, especially when it comes from someone you care about. How do you handle the situation? What will you say to your partner? Here are five simple and kind ways to handle the situation.

1. Above all, thank them first

Even if you don’t like the gift, it’s important to be thankful. Gratitude helps maintain a positive atmosphere and shows your partner that you value their gesture. Simple appreciation like “Babe, I really appreciate you getting this for me. It means a lot that you thought of me” will go a long way.

2. Focus on their effort

Instead of zeroing in on the gift itself, think about the thought and effort your partner put into getting it for you. For example, if they bought you a sweater in a color you don’t like, appreciate that they wanted to keep you warm.

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3. Find something positive to say about the gift

Try to find at least one thing you like about the gift, no matter how small it might be. For example, if your partner buys you a book you’re not interested in, maybe you like the cover design or the author’s writing style, you can say something like “This book has such a beautiful cover. Thank you for picking it out for me!”

4. Be honest but kind

If your partner expects you to use or wear the gift, it’s okay to be gently honest. Let them know your preference without hurting their feelings. If they get you a perfume that you’re allergic to, you can explain the situation kindly. An example could be: “This perfume has a lovely scent, but I’m actually allergic to it. Maybe we can find something else together?”

5. Suggest a fun exchange

If it’s possible, turn it into a fun activity. Suggest going together to exchange the gift for something you’ll love. This way, it becomes a bonding experience rather than a point of disappointment. You can tell them, “This is so thoughtful of you! Do you think we could go to the store together and find something that’s just perfect?”