Relationships require effort, compromise, and understanding. But sometimes, certain habits or behaviours are simply non-negotiable. A new survey reveals the most common relationship dealbreakers in the UK—traits and habits that make people walk away from a partner, no matter how strong the connection.
Surprisingly, smoking ranks high on the list, with many Brits finding it an instant turn-off. So, what are the biggest dealbreakers in relationships? Let’s take a closer look.
Top 10 Relationship Dealbreakers in the UK1. Dishonesty – The Ultimate Trust Breaker
Trust is the foundation of every healthy relationship. But once it’s broken, it’s incredibly difficult to repair. Whether it’s small white lies or bigger deceptions, dishonesty can lead to serious doubts about a partner’s integrity.
A shocking 66% of Brits said they would immediately break up with someone if they caught them lying. Even seemingly harmless lies—like hiding past relationships or pretending to like the same interests—can cause problems.
If honesty isn’t a priority in a relationship, resentment and insecurity will eventually creep in.
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Poor Hygiene – A Huge Turn-Off
Maintaining good hygiene isn’t just about looking good; it’s about self-respect and consideration for your partner. From skipping showers to bad breath, poor personal hygiene can quickly turn romance into repulsion.
According to the survey, 58% of respondents said they wouldn’t tolerate a partner with poor hygiene. Nobody wants to cuddle up to someone who smells unpleasant, and consistently neglecting hygiene can be seen as a lack of effort in the relationship.
If personal cleanliness is an issue, it might be time to rethink those shower habits.
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Drinking Too Much – A Lifestyle Clash
A drink or two is fine, but excessive drinking can lead to reckless behaviour, poor decision-making, and relationship strain. Many people struggle with partners who drink heavily, especially if it affects their ability to function in daily life.
Around 50% of Brits said they would leave a partner who drank too much. If alcohol consumption leads to frequent arguments, missed responsibilities, or embarrassing moments, it can be a dealbreaker.
For couples with different drinking habits, finding a balance is key.
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Smoking – A Smelly Problem
Smoking doesn’t just affect your health—it can impact your relationships too. The lingering smell, stained teeth, and long-term health risks make it one of the biggest dealbreakers in modern dating.
About one in three Brits said they wouldn’t date a smoker. Many prefer partners who don’t expose them to second-hand smoke or bring the smell of cigarettes into their homes.
This is why many people are turning to alternatives and are more likely to search for nicotine pouches near me to improve their relationships and keep their partners happy. These pouches provide a smokeless, discreet nicotine experience, with brands like Killa snus offering a modern way to satisfy cravings without the downsides of traditional smoking.
For those looking to maintain their relationships while still enjoying nicotine, switching to a smokeless option could be a smart move.
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Flirting with Others – A Slippery Slope
Even if it doesn’t lead to cheating, flirting with other people can make a partner feel disrespected. What seems like harmless fun to one person can be a source of deep insecurity for another.
A significant portion of survey respondents said they would immediately end a relationship if their partner engaged in inappropriate flirting. The reasoning? Flirting often signals a lack of commitment and can make a partner feel undervalued.
Setting boundaries on what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour is crucial for relationship security.
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Unemployment – More Than Just a Job Issue
While being unemployed isn’t always a choice, it can be a problem if a partner isn’t actively looking for work or showing ambition. Financial stability plays a major role in long-term relationships, and a lack of motivation can be frustrating.
Many people believe that having a job—or at least a plan for the future—is essential for a strong relationship. While temporary setbacks are understandable, a partner who refuses to work or contribute to the household can be a dealbreaker.
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Poor Communication – A Relationship Killer
Communication is everything. A partner who doesn’t listen, interrupts constantly or avoids difficult conversations can make the other feel neglected and unheard.
Many relationship problems stem from miscommunication, whether it’s about emotional needs, future goals, or even daily routines. If one person always dominates conversations while the other struggles to express their feelings, resentment builds up over time.
Healthy relationships thrive on open, honest, and respectful communication.
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Avoiding Friends and Family – A Red Flag
If your partner refuses to meet your friends or family, it could indicate a deeper issue. Being part of each other’s social circles is important for building a life together, and avoidance can raise suspicions.
Many Brits said they would question their relationship if their partner continuously avoided meeting their loved ones. While some social anxiety is understandable, outright refusal can be seen as a sign of emotional distance.
Introducing a partner to close friends and family is a big step, and reluctance to do so may signal a lack of long-term commitment.
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Constant Phone Use – The Digital Distraction
Excessive phone use has become a common issue in relationships. Constant texting, endless social media scrolling, and prioritising screen time over real conversations can leave a partner feeling overlooked and unimportant. Technology should improve communication, not replace it. If a partner spends more time looking at their phone than engaging in real-life interactions, it’s a major turn-off.
Many relationship experts suggest setting boundaries, such as “no phones at dinner,” to keep communication strong.
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Partying Too Much – When the Fun Never Stops
While going out and having fun is important, excessive partying can create conflicts, especially in long-term relationships. If one partner enjoys quiet nights at home while the other is out clubbing every weekend, it can lead to lifestyle clashes.
A quarter of respondents said they couldn’t be with someone who prioritised partying over quality time together. Relationships require balance, and a constant party lifestyle may not be sustainable in the long run.
While everyone has different expectations in relationships, these common dealbreakers highlight what most people won’t tolerate in a partner. Some, like dishonesty and flirting, damage trust, while others, like smoking and excessive drinking, affect daily life.
At the end of the day, successful relationships require respect, effort, and compromise. Avoiding these dealbreakers can help create a healthier, happier partnership.
Would you walk away from a partner over these dealbreakers? Let us know your thoughts!
