How to figure out if it’s a minor warning or a major walk-away—featuring real cards from Where Do You Draw the Line?
TL;DR:
- A red flag is a “hmm... let’s watch that.”
- A dealbreaker is a “no thanks.”
- The key? Knowing the difference for YOU.
Because the only wrong answer is not knowing what your answer is.
Red flags. Dealbreakers. Green flags.
We toss those terms around all the time—but let’s be honest: most people don’t actually know the difference.
Just because something makes you pause doesn't mean you should sprint away. And just because something seems fine on paper doesn’t mean it's right for you.
That’s where the magic of self-awareness—and one very intentional dating game—comes in.
Red Flag vs Dealbreaker: What’s the Difference?
Before we get into the juicy examples, let’s define the terms:
- Red Flag – A potential warning. Could be a problem. Could be nothing. Something to keep an eye on.
- Dealbreaker – A hard no. A non-negotiable. Something that disqualifies them from dating you.
- Green Flag – A good sign. A behavior or value you actively want in a partner.
- That’s Me – When the "problem" in question is you… and you’re okay with that.
This framework is exactly what powers Where Do You Draw the Line?—a card game that helps you figure out how you really feel about things that come up in dating.
1. They ask you to split the bill on the first date
Card from Where Do You Draw the Line
The Breakdown:
This one sparks debate every time. For some, it’s a green flag of financial equality. For others, it’s a red flag—they expect the person who initiated the date to cover it. And for some, it’s a total dealbreaker, especially if they value traditional dating roles.
Ask yourself: Does this show misaligned values, or just a different approach?
2. They play video games often
Card from Where Do You Draw the Line
The Breakdown:
Do they unwind with a couple hours of gaming like some people watch Netflix? Or are they spending 30+ hours a week locked in their man cave? This could be harmless, or it could signal a lifestyle mismatch.
Ask yourself: Is this a hobby you can live with, or something that’ll leave you feeling second place?
3. They eat sushi with a fork
Card from Where Do You Draw the Line
The Breakdown:
This one’s more fun than serious—but even lighthearted moments can reveal a lot. Do you see it as quirky and endearing, or does it scream lack of culture or effort? You’d be surprised how many people take food compatibility very seriously.
Ask yourself: Is it just a funny quirk—or a sign they don’t care to learn?
4. Their longest relationship was 3 months
Card from Where Do You Draw the Line
The Breakdown:
This could be a red flag—maybe they avoid commitment. But it could also mean they haven’t found the right person yet. Context matters: Are they 23 and just getting started? Or 37 and still in serial short-term mode?
Ask yourself: Does this make you curious—or concerned?
5. They won’t share their location when you're dating
Card from Where Do You Draw the Line
The Breakdown:
This one can be loaded. Some people value privacy, others see location sharing as transparency. If it feels like they’re hiding something, it could move straight into dealbreaker territory.
Ask yourself: Is it about boundaries—or secrecy?
So... Where Do You Draw the Line?
The best part? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. That’s the whole point. These conversations aren't about passing judgment—they’re about getting clear on what matters to you.
That’s why Where Do You Draw the Line exists.
It’s a dating card game designed to help you figure out your red flags, green flags, and dealbreakers—before things get complicated.
Try the Free Version
Want to see where you land on questions like these?
Play the free version of the game here
Or Grab the Full Deck
Perfect for first dates, late-night convos, or situationships that need a vibe check.
Get the full game here