How do you ask someone out on a date?

Being somewhat old fashioned in this regard, I prefer to let the gentleman do the asking.

by Ivana Katz

I wouldn't ask a guy out on a date - if he was interested he should ask. If I were single and asked anyway other than verbally, I would think it weird (especially online/by email).

by Sarah Bell

The guy normally asks, and they would do it face-to-face. Would not directly ask "do you want to go out on a date?" as that would be quite obvious. Instead they'd ask "Do you want to have dinner tomorrow night?" or something similar :)

by Justine Crowley

Start off by going on unofficial mini-dates such as coffee/lunch/movie dates; see whether there is a spark/connection and that it is not infatuation, and then be honest about how you feel. :)

by Xarah

I feel a girl should not do the asking of a guy for a date, she looks desperate.
Sorry, that's just sad.

Guys asking a girl...just keep it normal, natural, and don't sound desperate.

A girl will always know if a guy is too keen, and she will not find that at all cool.
Manners are one of the most important part of any asking, and if she says no....Don't ask her again in a few minutes....that's just not on.

Face to face is the best, and make sure you have brushed your teeth, and you are dressed well.

by jonaja

"How about we have coffee sometime? It's on me! Say, tomorrow, are you free?" Whether I should formally ask her out after that or just move on would depend on the answer I get from a simple coffee invite.

(Image lifted from Wikimedia commons)

by Manny