8 Biggest Clues an INTP Has a Crush on You

For singles, the Holiday season is often the start of new relationships. And crushes! As the temperatures drop and stores start selling adorable cardigans, people have the tendency to “cozy up” to someone before hibernation mode sets in. 

While most people try to transform their crush into a more concrete relationship, with an INTP, it's not quite as simple. They're the type most likely to send mixed signals by the dozen—sending you funny memes one minute while ignoring your texts the next.

So how do you figure out if an INTP *actually* has a crush on you? Here are the 8 biggest clues.

1: They will make an effort

If an INTP likes you, they will make every effort to chat and get to know you better. Even if they're busy, they'll find ways to send you regular messages, call you, and (hopefully) meet you in person.

That may sound like regular behavior to most, but to an INTP this is a huge deal. INTPs are prone to just about all the signs of overthinking and usually take their sweet time when it comes to reaching out to someone or following through on their actions.

But if they have a crush, they’re going to do something about it. I’ll admit to learning every jelly bean flavor for a foodie with a sweet tooth, reciting 30 digits of Pi for a math TA, and even trying Salsa in stilettos for an instructor. Ah, the things we do when smitten as an INTP!

2.  They will linger…

"I should go." "Bye then."

...but not quite yet.

An INTP with a crush will (often visibly) struggle to say goodbye and make funny or outlandish comments to keep their crush around for longer. Before they walk away, we may coyly ask for another hug or stretch out our conversation as much as we can.

Also, light physical touch without flinching is a good sign there's a crush in play. If your INTP touches you or reciprocates when you touch them, they're probably crushing hard. The key clues to look for are consistency and enthusiasm. The INTP’s top love language tends to be quality time and they're not nearly as fond of physical touch. So if they suddenly get all touchy-feely, you know something's up.

3. They keep dressing up to the nines

Spoiler alert: I'm notorious for overdressing when I know my crush will be there. Anyone who knew me in high school can attest to me strutting the halls in business casual every day. Generally speaking, I try to look presentable and put together in public. But if I have a raging crush on you, then I’ll reach for my top-shelf accessories.

We're probably going to break character and engage in a little people-pleasing for our crush, too. If the subject of our affections mentions they like a certain style—for example, streetwear—we'll instantly coordinate it into our outfits.

4.  They actually suggest plans and follow through

This is another major break of character. Let’s face it, INTPs have a tendency to be pretty darn lazy. True to type, I’d much rather stay in my pajamas and stream Netflix than make plans.

So if someone asks me to hang out and I make an effort to free up my schedule for them, there’s a 50% chance I may be interested in a little romance. But if I invite them out directly for a substantial amount of one-on-one time with an activity that I brainstormed and planned and that involves us directly interacting with each other? That number shoots up to 90%. Go figure.

5.  They share mind dumps

As INTPs, we may assume people are uninterested in what's going on so we usually keep conversations lighthearted and cordial. However, if we start rambling about the latest conspiracy theory, that crossword clue we’re stumped on, or the documentary that tickled our brains—watch out, you may be in crush (or at least close friend) territory. Especially if we’ve just met.

For close friends, you may be used to us pestering you with random information that may only ever be useful in a niche Jeopardy tournament. What you need to watch out for is a change in our delivery. Do we go above and beyond to find funny memes or GIFs on a topic we know you're interested in? That's courtship, not friendship.

6.  They flirt, cerebrally and chaotically

Funny story time. I once told a guy that his pupils will dilate and his pelvic positioning will change if he's interested in someone and made him ridiculously flustered on the spot. Was there a second date? Surprisingly, yes. I still cringe at what I said to him, but the experience serves as great insight into the chaotic flirting techniques of an INTP on the quest for love.

The more awkward the comments and delivery, the more likely it is that your INTP has a crush on you. Our brain lags in real time when we try to be cute and flirty. Oops.

7.  They remember tiny, inconsequential details

INTPs have an uncanny talent for remembering an entire backlog of information about someone's past or preferences. When INTPs are in their feelings, they'll randomly bring those details up in conversations. Our crush becomes a fun trivia game we’re invested in exploring further.

8. They'll tell you

Surprised? Don't be. INTPs are not wallflowers and they're not big on secrets. Even the shyest ones will admit to a crush if asked directly. INTPs can be confused about their feelings and may take some time to make sense of them, but once they’re ready—they might just come to you.

What happens next is up to you. Play your cards right, and that awkward crush may blossom into something magical. Good luck! :)