10 Things Couples Do in Public That Make Friends Cringe
Spending time around couples often means witnessing behaviors that can make others feel awkward or embarrassed. In social settings or public places, certain actions can leave friends wondering why some things aren’t kept private.
Making out intensely with tongue in crowded places
Making out intensely with tongue in crowded places can catch people off guard. Many friends might feel uncomfortable watching such intimate moments unfold so openly.
You might enjoy the thrill or excitement it brings to your relationship. However, others could see it as disrespectful to the shared space or simply cringe at the display.
If you choose to do this, be aware of how your behavior affects those around you. Balancing passion with respect for your surroundings helps keep things fun without making others uneasy.
Arguing loudly for everyone to hear

Arguing loudly in public puts everyone around you in an awkward spot. People nearby can hear every word, and it often makes them uncomfortable.
Choosing a quieter place to discuss serious issues shows respect. Your friends and even strangers appreciate when you keep arguments private because it keeps the atmosphere calm.
If you find yourself raising your voice, try taking a break or stepping away for a moment. This small change can make a big difference in how others perceive you both.
Using excessively cheesy pet names out loud
Using pet names can be sweet, but over-the-top nicknames in public can make friends uncomfortable. Calling your partner “Snuggle Muffin” or “Honey Buns” loudly might seem cute to you, but others might cringe or roll their eyes.
When you use them constantly or in crowded places, people might wonder if you realize how intense it sounds. It’s okay to show affection, but balance helps keep things fun for everyone.
Some pet names may come across as endearing to you but could sound strange or even embarrassing to others. Using them quietly or just between the two of you can save your friends from feeling awkward.
Sharing every little moment with your partner online can quickly wear out your friends. Posting all day about dates, inside jokes, or random affection may come across as trying too hard.
Your friends might start feeling like they’re on the outside looking in. Sometimes, couples post a lot to paint a perfect picture, even if real life is different.
Happy couples tend to keep many moments private and enjoy them offline instead of broadcasting every detail. Finding a good balance between sharing and privacy helps keep your social media fun without making people cringe at the constant updates.
Displaying overly dramatic public displays of affection
Going overboard with public displays of affection can make your friends uncomfortable. Hugging and kissing are sweet, but too much—like passionate make-out sessions or constant clinginess—often feels excessive to others around you.
Sharing intense personal moments or using baby talk loudly can also draw unwanted attention. Your closest friends might find it hard to join the conversation when you’re focused only on each other.
Keeping some affection private shows respect for the people nearby. A little restraint makes your public displays more enjoyable to everyone.
Ignoring everyone else while lost in their own world
When you and your partner get too wrapped up in each other, it’s easy to forget the people around you. This can make friends or strangers feel invisible or uncomfortable.
Constantly whispering, laughing, or sharing private jokes in public can make others feel like outsiders. Even if you’re simply distracted, it may come across as rude or dismissive.
It’s good to enjoy your time together, but try to stay aware of your surroundings. A little eye contact or greeting others nearby can help keep the vibe friendly and inclusive.
Being mindful of this balance shows you care about those around you while still enjoying your connection. For more on common couple habits to avoid, see cringiest things couples do in public.
Playing tonsil hockey openly in public
Sharing a quick kiss is sweet and often welcomed. But playing tonsil hockey openly in public can make others feel uncomfortable.
This kind of heavy, prolonged kissing draws unwanted attention. People might get distracted or even grossed out by the level of intimacy on display.
If you enjoy tonsil hockey, it’s best to save it for more private moments. Respecting the space around you helps friends and strangers feel at ease.
Holding hands so tightly and for so long it’s awkward

Holding hands too tightly in public can come across as a little intense to onlookers. Your grip might seem less like a sweet gesture and more like you’re trying to never let go—which can make friends around you feel awkward.
Holding hands is a simple way to show closeness, but squeezing too hard or for an extended time can send the wrong signal. Others might read it as discomfort or even tension.
It’s good to find a balance where your handholding feels natural and relaxed. Keeping your touch gentle and occasional can make your connection clear without making everyone else around you squirm.
Constantly whispering sweet nothings loudly
Whispering sweet nothings is meant to be a private, tender moment. But if you do it loudly, it can make others around you uncomfortable or even cringe.
People nearby might feel like they’re unintentionally eavesdropping. It’s a fine line between intimate and distracting.
Whispering sweet nothings is about connection, not volume. Keeping your voice low shows respect for your surroundings while still sharing those special moments.
Not everyone wants to hear your love declarations, no matter how sweet they are. You can save the louder, more playful whispering for when you’re alone.
If you want to practice those loving phrases, think about how to keep the romance personal without making your friends or strangers feel awkward.
Taking selfies nonstop during outings
Capturing every moment might seem appealing, but taking selfies nonstop can be exhausting for everyone else around you. It often slows down the flow of the outing and distracts from actually enjoying the experience.
When you focus too much on getting the “perfect shot,” it can make your friends feel like they’re just part of a photo shoot. That constant posing and picture-taking can quickly become annoying.
Snapping a few photos is fine, but try to be mindful of timing and your group’s vibe. Sometimes, putting the phone away lets you truly connect and enjoy the moment together.
If you want tips on handling public selfies without awkwardness, there are ways to make it easier on everyone during your outings. These can help you feel confident while respecting others’ space.