If an ex uses these 8 phrases in conversation, they secretly regret losing you

Isabella Chase by Isabella Chase | October 15, 2024, 2:53 pm

Speaking with an ex can be a confusing experience, often filled with unexpected emotions and hidden meanings.

You might find yourself analyzing every word they say, wondering if there’s more beneath the surface—if they regret the decision to end things.

While they may not come out and admit it, the way they talk can sometimes give them away. If you listen closely, certain phrases can reveal that they’re not as over you as they claim to be.

This is your guide to detecting whether an ex secretly regrets losing you based on eight key phrases they might use in conversation.

1) “I’ve been thinking about you”

This phrase might seem casual on the surface, but it could be an indication that your ex regrets their decision to leave.

If they’re bringing up old memories or expressing that they’ve been dwelling on thoughts of you, it could suggest they miss having you in their life.

Remember, though, context is key. If this sentiment is expressed during a late-night text or after a few drinks, it might not hold as much weight.

But if your ex brings it up during a sober, daylight conversation, it could be a sign they’re genuinely missing you and possibly regret letting you go.

2) “I’m really happy for you”

On the surface, this phrase might sound like your ex is genuinely pleased with your progress post-breakup. But sometimes, it can hint at regret.

They might be expressing happiness for your success, only to mask their own feelings of loss or regret.

This phrase can often come up when they hear about your new achievements or milestones, like a promotion at work or a new relationship.

If your ex often seems to express happiness over your successes, it might be an attempt to stay connected with you and indirectly express their regret.

3) “Remember when we…?”

If your ex frequently brings up memories from your past relationship, it could be a sign they regret losing you.

This is because reminiscing about shared experiences is a way of reliving those moments.

According to psychology, memories trigger an emotional response. So humans tend to recall past events when they want to recreate the emotions associated with those memories.

If your ex is often reminding you of past shared experiences, it’s possible they miss the times spent with you and regret the loss of those moments.

However, while memories can be a source of comfort, they can also prevent healing. Unless your goal is to get back with your ex, it’s important to keep moving forward and not get stuck in the past.

4) “I hope you’re doing well”

This phrase can often be a genuine expression of care and concern. If your ex consistently wishes you well, it shows they still care about your well-being.

But deep down, it could also be an indication of regret.

It’s important to approach this with an open heart. Sometimes, relationships end not because of a lack of love, but because of circumstances or incompatibilities.

Your ex expressing their hope for your wellness could be their way of dealing with the regret of losing you while also wanting the best for you.

Always remember, it’s okay to accept their well-wishes without reopening old wounds or reigniting past feelings. Healing is a journey, and kindness can be a part of that path.

5) “I’ve been listening to our song”

We’ve all been there, right?

A certain tune comes on the radio, and it feels like a time machine back to a particular moment or person. 

Music has a powerful way of taking us back to specific moments, feelings, and memories.

It’s a universal experience that can stir up strong emotions.

If your ex brings up “your” song or a playlist you used to share, they might just be feeling the weight of your absence and dealing with some regret.

But here’s something to ponder. Studies have found that, in moderation, nostalgia can help us move on, and it’s not necessarily an invitation to go back to how things were.

6) “I’ve made some changes”

When an ex starts discussing personal changes they’ve made since your split, it can be a sign that they’re trying to reconcile with you.

For instance, let’s say you broke up because you had constant arguments about them never spending time with you because of their workaholic tendencies. Now they text you to tell you how they’ve cut back on work and started prioritizing personal relationships.

It’s like when a friend of mine broke up with her boyfriend because he was always out with his friends and never made time for her.

A few months after their breakup, he started talking about how he was staying in more and realized the importance of investing time in a relationship.

This was his way of showing her he regretted the decisions that led to their breakup.

Still remember, people change for themselves first and foremost. So, even if your ex has changed, it doesn’t necessarily mean they should automatically regain a place in your life.

7) “I wish things were different”

This phrase might seem like a clear cut case of regret, but it’s important to not jump to conclusions.

While your ex expressing a desire for things to be different could indicate they miss you, it’s not necessarily a sign they’re ready to make amends or have truly learned from the breakup.

It’s kind of like when someone says they want to lose weight, but aren’t willing to change their eating habits or start exercising.

Wishing for something doesn’t equate to taking actionable steps towards it.

So if your ex is waxing poetic about wishing things were different but hasn’t shown any real change or effort, take it with a grain of salt.

You’re worth more than empty words and deserve someone who’s willing to work for the relationship, not just wish for it.

8) “I miss you”

This is possibly the most direct phrase an ex can use to express regret.

Hearing “I miss you” can stir up a lot of emotions, but it’s crucial to remember your worth and the reasons why the relationship ended in the first place.

Even if your ex misses you and regrets losing you, it doesn’t automatically mean getting back together is the right course of action. The reasons for your breakup likely still exist, unless significant changes have been made.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you deserve a relationship that brings you happiness and fulfillment. Whether or not your ex regrets losing you, your focus should be on your own growth and well-being. 

Final thoughts

Conversations with an ex can be emotionally charged and leave you questioning their true feelings.

If you’ve noticed them using any of these phrases, it could be a sign that they secretly regret letting you go.

While words alone aren’t enough to fully understand their emotions, they can offer important clues about what’s really going on beneath the surface.

Whether or not you choose to act on these signs is up to you, but remember—you deserve someone who knows your worth from the start.