Okay, let’s be real. The moment you get that notification that your crush likes you back is a mix of total hype and low-key panic. What do you even say? The pressure to nail the first message is real, especially when it’s someone you already know from class, work, or your friend group. Generic openers like ‘hey’ are an instant vibe-killer, but coming on too strong gives major cringe. You need something that bridges the gap from ‘that person I know’ to ‘this could actually be something.’
This isn’t about cheesy pickup lines; it’s about starting a genuine conversation that feels natural. Having a crush on someone you know hits different than matching with a total stranger. That’s why having a solid set of date icebreaker questions is key. It’s less about breaking the ice and more about the vibe check. This is especially true when you’ve matched on a discreet app like wadaCrush, where connections are built on mutual, anonymous liking between people who already have a real-world context. A 2021 study showed that about 30% of U.S. adults have used a dating app, but wadaCrush flips the script—since profiles aren’t public, the first interaction sets the entire tone. You can even crush on someone who isn’t on the app yet; they’ll get a discreet notification only if you match later.
This guide provides specific, low-pressure questions designed for exactly these situations. We’ll cover everything from playful openers to questions that spark deeper conversation, helping you skip the awkward small talk and get straight to a real connection. Think of this as your playbook for turning that mutual crush into an actual conversation, and maybe even a first date, without the cringe. Let’s get into it.
1. The ‘Two Truths and a Lie’ Opening
This isn’t your average summer camp icebreaker; it’s a strategic first move. The concept is simple: you share three “facts” about yourself, two that are true and one that’s a lie. Your match then has to guess which one is the fake. This classic game works exceptionally well as one of the first date icebreaker questions, especially in a low-stakes texting environment.
What makes this opener so effective, particularly for wadaCrush users, is that you already have some shared context. Since matches on the app happen between people who know each other—classmates, coworkers, or mutual friends—the game becomes a fun challenge to see how well you really know one another. It bypasses the awkward “so, what do you do?” small talk and jumps straight into sharing personal, interesting tidbits in a playful, low-pressure way. It’s perfect for reducing that first-message anxiety while still being revealing.
How to Use It Effectively
The key is to make your lie plausible but your truths surprising. This combination sparks genuine curiosity. The goal isn’t to trick them easily; it’s to create a memorable interaction that opens the door for more conversation.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “Okay, two truths and a lie: 1. I’ve been to a silent disco in three different countries. 2. I once won a hot-dog-eating contest. 3. I have a side hustle reselling vintage board games.”
- “Your turn to guess: 1. I’m secretly a nationally ranked chess player. 2. Our mutual friend, Sarah, and I once got lost hiking and had to be rescued. 3. I speak conversational Klingon.”
Pro-Tip: For wadaCrush matches, subtly reference your shared connection. If you’re coworkers, one of your statements could be about a funny, unverified office rumor. This builds instant rapport and shows you’re paying attention.
After they guess, the real conversation begins. Whether they are right or wrong, you now have three great topics to discuss. Ask them “What made you think that was the lie?” or dive into the story behind one of the truths. This simple game is a masterclass in turning a single icebreaker into an engaging, multi-layered chat.
2. The ‘If You Could’ Hypothetical Question
This approach is a low-key way to explore someone’s imagination and values. By posing an open-ended question that starts with “If you could…”, you invite them to share their dreams, priorities, and personality without the pressure of a direct, factual inquiry. These date icebreaker questions are designed to be fun and revealing, moving beyond surface-level chatter.
This method is especially useful for wadaCrush users who already share a social circle. When you’re matched with a classmate or coworker, a hypothetical question feels less like an interview and more like a playful exploration of what makes them tick outside of that shared environment. It’s a chance to see their creative side and discover what truly motivates them when real-world limitations are removed, creating genuine points of connection.
How to Use It Effectively
The strength of a hypothetical question is its ability to open up multiple conversation threads from a single answer. Start with lighter topics before asking anything too profound, and always be prepared to share your own answer to encourage a balanced exchange.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “Alright, hypothetical: If you could have any superpower for just one day, what would you choose and what’s the first thing you’d do?”
- “If you could skip work/class tomorrow completely guilt-free, how would you spend the day?”
- “Here’s one: If you could live in any fictional universe (from a book, movie, or game), which one would it be and why?”
Pro-Tip: For wadaCrush matches, ground your hypothetical in your shared context. For a classmate, ask, “If you could redesign one class we have to make it 10x more interesting, what would you change?” It makes the question immediately relevant and personal.
Their answer is a goldmine for follow-up questions. If they’d spend a free day hiking, ask about their favorite trails. If they choose a specific superpower, ask what that choice says about them. This turns a simple question into a meaningful dialogue, showing you’re not just asking to fill the silence-you’re genuinely curious about who they are.
3. The ‘Shared Experience’ Reference Question
This question is a superpower for wadaCrush users. Instead of reaching for generic date icebreaker questions, you reference a specific moment or event you both experienced. This instantly validates your connection because it’s rooted in a real-life, shared memory—something impossible to replicate on random swipe-based apps. It proves genuine familiarity and shows you’ve been paying attention.
The power of this opener lies in its exclusivity. Since wadaCrush facilitates matches between people who already know each other (classmates, coworkers, mutual friends), you have a unique history to draw from. Asking, “Remember when [shared moment] happened?” creates an immediate “us vs. the world” bond. It bypasses superficial chatter and dives straight into a connection that feels earned, private, and meaningful, perfectly aligning with the app’s discreet nature.
How to Use It Effectively
Your goal is to be specific enough to show you genuinely remember the moment without sounding like you’ve been keeping a detailed file on them. Focus on positive or humorous memories to start the conversation on a light, enjoyable note. This demonstrates authentic interest and makes them feel seen.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- For Classmates: “Okay, what did you really think about that wild discussion on ethics in Prof. Davis’s class last week? I’m still thinking about it.”
- For Coworkers: “Remember how chaotic that all-hands meeting was on Tuesday? Your comment about the new workflow was actually spot on.”
- For Mutual Friends: “The party at Jess’s place was hilarious. I’ve been laughing about that moment with the playlist all week. Did you catch that?”
Pro-Tip: Don’t just state the memory; explain why it stuck with you. Saying, “I was thinking about your comment the other day,” shows that your interest isn’t new—it’s been there since before you matched.
Once they respond, the follow-up is natural. You can ask for their perspective on the event or use it as a springboard to suggest a future hangout. For example, “Speaking of that class, want to grab coffee and complain about the final paper sometime?” This turns a simple memory into a concrete plan.
4. The ‘Mutual Friend’ Question
This approach is the secret sauce for wadaCrush users. Since the app connects you with people you already know, referencing your shared connection is a natural, low-pressure way to start a real conversation. Asking about your mutual friend provides an instant, authentic foundation to build upon, turning a cold start into a warm introduction.
This is one of the most effective date icebreaker questions because it moves beyond generic openers. It taps directly into a shared social reality, which immediately creates a sense of familiarity and trust. You’re not just two random people; you’re two people who are already part of the same community. This provides a goldmine of information about their character, how they value friendships, and their role within your shared circle.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal is to show genuine curiosity about their connection, not to make them feel like you’re digging for gossip. Frame your questions positively to explore the friendship and open the door for them to share stories. This method creates comfort by focusing on a familiar, third-party subject before turning the spotlight directly on each other.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “So, how did you and Maria first meet? She’s one of my favorite people, and you two seem to have such a fun dynamic.”
- “I heard from Alex that you’re both regulars at that trivia night downtown. How did you get into that?”
- “What’s your favorite memory with [mutual friend’s name]? I’m collecting good stories.”
Pro-Tip: Pay attention to how they talk about your mutual friend. If they speak with warmth and respect, it’s a great sign. This isn’t just small talk; it’s a subtle way to gauge their loyalty and capacity for genuine connection.
Once they answer, reciprocate by sharing your own perspective or a positive story about the friend. From there, you can easily pivot the conversation. For example, if they mention a shared hobby, ask them about their own interests. This icebreaker perfectly bridges the gap between your shared past and a potential future together.
5. The ‘Interest-Based Deep Dive’ Question
This approach is all about showing you’ve paid attention. Instead of a generic opening, you dive straight into something specific you noticed on their profile. Since wadaCrush matches share limited details like interests, using this information as a starting point is a powerful way to make your match feel seen and validated. It’s one of the best date icebreaker questions because it signals genuine interest from the get-go.
The real strength of this question lies in its authenticity. It’s not a gimmick or a game; it’s a direct and warm invitation to talk about something they genuinely enjoy. For wadaCrush users, who are often connecting with people already in their social or professional circles, this method feels natural and respectful. It bypasses awkward small talk by focusing on shared passions or intriguing hobbies, making the transition from a discreet match to a real conversation feel effortless.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal is to be curious, not creepy. Frame your question to be open-ended, encouraging them to share more than a simple yes or no. This demonstrates that you’re not just looking for a quick response, but are actually interested in their experience.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “I saw you’re into rock climbing on your profile. Do you have a favorite gym or any cool outdoor spots you’d recommend?”
- “Your profile mentions photography! What kind of things do you love to shoot?”
- “I noticed you’re learning Spanish. What first got you interested in studying it?”
- “Looks like you’re into true crime podcasts. Any that have totally hooked you lately? I need a new one.”
Pro-Tip: If you share an interest, mention it! Saying, “No way, I’m also a huge board game fan! What’s your current favorite?” creates an instant bond and gives you a clear topic to connect over.
The best part is that their answer provides a natural path for the conversation to continue. You can ask follow-up questions about their favorite part of the hobby, how they got started, or even suggest an activity related to that interest for a potential first date. It’s a smooth, low-pressure way to build rapport.
6. Casual Openers: Weekend Plans & ‘Choice Between’ Preference
Sometimes the best date icebreaker questions are the ones that don’t feel like questions at all. This approach uses low-pressure starters that feel completely natural, making it perfect for initiating a chat with an acquaintance. Asking about their weekend or posing a simple “this or that” choice removes the interview vibe and keeps things light and conversational from the get-go.
These openers are brilliant for testing the waters without coming on too strong. Since users on the wadaCrush app often match with people they already know, like classmates or mutual friends, these questions blend right into your existing dynamic. They work by revealing lifestyle habits, priorities, and personality quirks through normal, everyday conversation topics, making them a smooth way to see if there’s a spark.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal is to be genuinely curious, not just to fill the silence. Use their answer as a launchpad for a real conversation. Sharing your own plans or preferences is key to making it a two-way street and encouraging them to open up more.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “Any fun plans for the weekend?” (Casual and open-ended, invites them to share as much as they want).
- “Simple but important question: pizza or tacos?” (A lighthearted way to lead into a conversation about food, restaurants, and maybe even a future date).
- “Early bird or night owl? And how does that affect your schedule?” (Reveals lifestyle patterns and opens a door to talk about daily routines).
- “Quick one: spontaneous road trip or a fully planned vacation?” (Gives you a peek into their sense of adventure and planning style).
Pro-Tip: Always follow up with “why?” to get to the good stuff. “Oh, you’re a night owl? What’s the best thing about staying up late?” turns a simple fact into a meaningful insight about what they value.
The real magic happens in the follow-up. If they mention a concert, ask about the artist. If they say they’re staying in, ask what they’re watching. If they’re busy, asking about a future weekend shows you’re interested in their schedule, not just making small talk. This method effortlessly scales from a casual check-in to planning your first hangout.
7. The ‘Compliment + Question’ Combo
This approach is less of a game and more of a genuine observation, making it one of the most effective date icebreaker questions for creating an authentic connection. It works by pairing a sincere compliment about a person’s character, skill, or actions with a curious, open-ended question. This combo validates them while inviting them to share a story, showing you’ve noticed who they are beyond a profile.
What makes this method so powerful for wadaCrush users is the pre-existing context. Since you already know the person, your compliment is grounded in real observation, not flattery. It proves you’ve been paying attention, whether in a shared class, office, or social circle. This technique beautifully shifts the focus from superficial traits to meaningful qualities, creating a warm, respectful, and engaging conversation starter.
How to Use It Effectively
Your goal is to be specific and genuine. The compliment should highlight an action, value, or personality trait you truly admire, and the question should stem from natural curiosity about it. This combination makes the other person feel seen and appreciated for something substantial.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “I’ve always been impressed by how you balance leading the project team and your own coursework. Is that kind of organization something you’ve always been good at?”
- “I noticed you’re the person everyone comes to for advice on their essays. How did you get so good at breaking down complex ideas?”
- “You seem really passionate when you talk about your volunteer work. What first drew you to that cause?”
Pro-Tip: Focus compliments on character, intelligence, or values, not physical appearance. After a match, the goal is to build a connection based on personality and shared interests, and this method does exactly that.
The follow-up conversation flows naturally from their answer. You can share why you noticed that particular trait or what impressed you about it. This method doesn’t just break the ice; it melts it by starting the conversation from a place of genuine admiration and curiosity, setting a positive and mature tone for whatever comes next.
8. The ‘Playful Challenge’ or ‘Bet’ Question
This approach turns a simple question into a fun, low-stakes game. By phrasing a guess as a playful bet or challenge, you invite your match into a lighthearted back-and-forth. The idea is to make an educated guess about their personality, preferences, or habits, creating an opening for them to either confirm your guess or correct you with a laugh. This is a top-tier date icebreaker question for generating banter.
What makes this tactic so effective is its blend of curiosity and confidence. It shows you’ve been paying attention, but the playful framing keeps it from feeling like an interrogation. For wadaCrush users, who are already connected as acquaintances, classmates, or coworkers, this method is especially potent. You can base your “bet” on the little things you already know, turning a simple observation into an engaging challenge that tests how well you’ve read each other. It’s a great way to move past surface-level chat and into more personal territory with a safety net of humor.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal isn’t to be right; it’s to start a conversation. Your guess acts as a prompt. The secret is to react with genuine interest whether you win or lose the “bet.” Being wrong is often better, as it gives them the floor to talk about who they really are.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “Okay, I’m going to guess you’re a coffee person, not tea. What’s the verdict? Am I buying you a latte or a chai on our first date?”
- “Let me guess: you’re a meticulous planner who has their weekend sorted by Wednesday, not a spontaneous ‘let’s just see what happens’ type. Am I close?”
- “I have a theory that your Spotify is 50% angsty 2000s rock. The real question is… what’s the other 50%?”
Pro-Tip: Keep the tone light and be ready to laugh at yourself. If you guess they’re a morning person and they reply, “I don’t function before 11 AM,” you can respond with, “Okay, noted! So our first coffee date will definitely be an afternoon one.”
Every correction they make is a new thread to pull. If you guess they’re an introvert and they’re actually a social butterfly, ask what they love about big gatherings. This single challenge can branch into multiple conversations, all while establishing a fun and flirty dynamic from the very beginning.
9. The ‘Story-Asking’ Question
Facts are good, but stories are where the magic happens. Instead of asking what they do or where they’re from, prompt them to share a narrative. Questions that start with “Tell me about a time when…” invite them to reveal their personality, sense of humor, and emotional depth in a much more authentic way than a simple Q&A. This is one of the best date icebreaker questions for getting past the surface level.
This approach shows you’re interested in who they are as a person, not just a collection of stats on a profile. For wadaCrush users, it’s a brilliant way to explore the history you already share. Since the app connects people who know each other, asking about a shared experience, place, or mutual friend gives you fertile ground for great stories. It’s less of an interview and more of a collaborative trip down memory lane.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal is to ask for a specific type of story, not just a vague “tell me about yourself.” The more focused your prompt, the easier it is for them to recall and share something meaningful. This creates an immediate emotional connection and gives you plenty to talk about.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “Tell me about the most fun you’ve ever had with our mutual friend, [Friend’s Name]. What made it so memorable?”
- “What’s the wildest thing that’s ever happened at [shared workplace/campus]? I feel like I’ve only heard rumors.”
- “Describe your most embarrassing moment from college and how you managed to laugh about it afterward.”
- “What’s a time you completely surprised yourself with something you did or accomplished?”
Pro-Tip: After they share, react genuinely. Laugh at the funny parts, show empathy for the awkward moments, and ask follow-up questions about the details. This validates their story and shows you were truly listening, which makes them feel seen and appreciated.
The best part is that a good story invites another. Once they’ve finished, it’s a natural transition for you to share a related anecdote of your own. This back-and-forth of narratives builds a powerful, shared experience and is a fast track to discovering if your personalities and values click.
10. The ‘Vulnerability Window’ Question with Reassurance
This approach tackles the potential weirdness of a crush reveal head-on. The idea is to acknowledge the new dynamic that a wadaCrush match creates, then ask a question that opens a small, safe window for genuine sharing. By framing the question with reassurance, you validate any awkwardness and create psychological safety, making it one of the most effective date icebreaker questions for turning a known acquaintance into something more.
This method works especially well for wadaCrush matches because both people are aware of the existing connection and the new layer of mutual interest. Instead of ignoring the elephant in the room, you address it with warmth. This clears the air and pivots the conversation toward authenticity and meaningful connection, moving beyond surface-level chats. It shows emotional intelligence and a genuine interest in them as a person.
How to Use It Effectively
The goal is to invite vulnerability, not demand it. Start by acknowledging the situation, then gently ask a question about their passions, personal growth, or excitement. This gives them an out if they’re not ready to share, but also an invitation to connect on a deeper level if they are.
Good Examples to Get You Started:
- “I know this might feel a bit random since we matched, but I’m curious—what’s something you’re working on improving about yourself right now?”
- “So, full transparency, I’ve had a crush on you for a bit, but mostly I’m just curious to know what you’re genuinely excited about in your life right now.”
- “This might feel forward, but one thing I’ve always wanted to ask you is… what’s something you’re really passionate about that you don’t get to talk about much?”
Pro-Tip: Always be prepared to share your own answer first. Modeling vulnerability is the best way to make someone else feel comfortable. If you ask them what they’re passionate about, be ready to share your own passion with equal enthusiasm.
After they answer, listen without judgment and thank them for sharing. This builds trust and shows you value their openness. Your follow-up questions can then build on what they’ve told you, proving you were paying attention and care about their journey. For more guidance on building these personal skills, you can find helpful resources for self-improvement and personal growth. This thoughtful approach turns a simple icebreaker into a foundation for a real relationship.
10 Date Icebreakers: Quick Comparison
| Icebreaker | Complexity 🔄 | Resources ⚡ | Expected outcomes 📊 / Quality ⭐ | Ideal use cases | Key advantages 💡 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The "Two Truths and a Lie" Opening | 🔄🔄 (moderate creativity) | ⚡ (low time) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Playful rapport; reveals quirks & triggers follow-ups | College students, coworkers, acquaintances | Engaging, low-pressure; prompts surprising facts |
| The "If You Could" Hypothetical Question | 🔄 (simple) | ⚡ (low) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Reveals values/aspirations; scalable depth | Shy daters, recently single adults, broad audiences | Adaptable; models vulnerability and sparks storytelling |
| The "Shared Experience" Reference Question | 🔄🔄 (recall required) | ⚡ (low) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Immediate authenticity and inside-joke potential | Classmates, coworkers, friends-of-friends | Proves familiarity; skips small talk and builds trust |
| The "Mutual Friend" Question | 🔄 (simple) | ⚡ (low) | ⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Builds trust and social context | Matches with shared social circles | Natural bridge to group hangouts; reveals values via friendships |
| The "Interest-Based Deep Dive" Question | 🔄🔄 (targeted) | ⚡⚡ (moderate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Shows attention; uncovers passions & compatibility | All users wanting meaningful connection | Validates profile details; suggests activities to meet |
| Casual Openers: Weekend Plans & "Choice Between" | 🔄 (very simple) | ⚡ (very low) | ⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Fast replies; reveals lifestyle and availability | Second/third messages; busy students/professionals | Natural, easy to answer; practical for scheduling hangouts |
| The "Compliment + Question" Combo | 🔄🔄 (requires sincerity) | ⚡ (low–moderate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Makes person feel seen; sparks story sharing | Emotionally intelligent users; shy folks easing into depth | Validates character/actions; fosters reciprocal vulnerability |
| The "Playful Challenge" or "Bet" Question | 🔄🔄 (tone-sensitive) | ⚡ (low) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Generates banter, humor, and quick engagement | College, young professionals, banter-friendly personalities | Fun, gamified approach; creates inside jokes and energy |
| The "Story-Asking" Question | 🔄🔄🔄 (structured prompt) | ⚡⚡ (moderate patience) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Deep connection; reveals values, humor, resilience | Thoughtful users; those seeking authentic intimacy | Elicits rich narratives; accelerates emotional bonding |
| The "Vulnerability Window" Question with Reassurance | 🔄🔄🔄 (emotionally nuanced) | ⚡⚡ (moderate) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 📊 Builds trust quickly but can feel heavy if premature | Emotionally mature users; anxious or introspective daters | Clears awkwardness explicitly; invites honest sharing |
Turn That Conversation Into a Connection
You’ve made it through our deep dive into the world of date icebreaker questions, from playful openers to deep, meaningful inquiries. By now, it should be clear that a good question isn’t just about breaking the silence; it’s a strategic tool for turning a simple conversation into a genuine connection. The goal isn’t just to get a reply, but to start a real dialogue.
Remember, the most effective icebreaker is one that feels authentic to you. Forcing a flirty question when you’re naturally more reserved will come across as awkward. Likewise, asking a deeply philosophical question on a casual first date might feel too intense. The key is to match the question to the moment, the person, and your own personality. The examples in this article, like the ‘Shared Experience’ reference or the ‘Playful Challenge’, are starting points, not scripts.
Key Takeaways: From Icebreaker to Real Interest
Let’s distill the core principles we’ve covered into actionable insights. Mastering these concepts is what separates a forgettable chat from a memorable one.
- Listen More, Talk Less: The purpose of a question is to learn about the other person. Pay close attention to their answer. The best follow-up questions come from active listening, not from a pre-planned list. Did they mention a specific band, a travel destination, or a passion project? That’s your cue to dig deeper.
- Context is Everything: A question that works wonders over text might fall flat in person. A flirty probe meant for a second date is probably not the best move for a coworker you’re curious about. Always consider the “where” and “who” before you decide on the “what.”
- Authenticity Over Everything: Your curiosity should be genuine. People can sense when you’re just running through a checklist. Ask questions you actually want to know the answers to. This natural interest is what builds rapport and makes the other person feel seen and valued.
- Vulnerability is a Two-Way Street: When you ask a question that requires a bit of vulnerability, like the ‘Story-Asking’ or ‘Vulnerability Window’ prompts, be prepared to share a similar story or feeling yourself. This creates a safe space for honesty and shows you’re invested in the exchange.
Ultimately, the power of good date icebreaker questions lies in their ability to reveal compatibility. Do they have a similar sense of humor? Do your values align? Do you get excited about the same things? These questions are shortcuts to finding out if there’s a real spark.
Pro-Tip: Pay attention to their non-verbal cues. If you’re on a date in person, their body language, eye contact, and tone of voice will tell you just as much as their words. If their answers are short and they aren’t asking questions back, it might be a sign to ease off or change the subject.
If the thought of putting yourself out there still feels daunting, especially with friends or acquaintances where the social stakes feel high, remember that modern tools are designed to reduce this exact pressure. The fear of rejection or making things awkward in your social circle is real, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier. Discreet platforms exist to remove the guesswork.
For instance, systems that work on mutual, anonymous interest ensure that you only connect when the feeling is reciprocated. This is a game-changer for shy or privacy-conscious individuals. You can express interest without your profile being publicly visible, and the other person doesn’t even need to be on the app initially to be part of a potential match. It’s a low-risk, high-reward way to see if that crush you have on a classmate or mutual friend is a one-way street or a potential connection waiting to happen.
So, take a deep breath. Pick a question from this list that resonates with you, adapt it to your unique situation, and go for it. The worst that can happen is you learn something new. The best? You start something amazing.
Ready to find out if your crush feels the same way without the risk of public rejection? wadaCrush lets you discreetly check for mutual interest with people you already know, even if they aren’t on the app yet. Stop guessing and start connecting by visiting wadaCrush to see how it works.
