When it comes to TBH or To Be Honest posts on Instagram, knowing how to respond can make a huge difference in your online relationship with friends, followers, or anyone who shares their honest thoughts. The trend of sending a TBH is all about expressing appreciative, playful, or sincere feelings, and your reply can set the tone for the conversation that follows. Whether it’s a compliment, a casual observation, or even a constructive criticism, it’s important to acknowledge the message with a positive mindset. Responses to a TBH on Instagram.
For instance, if a friend drops an unexpected compliment on your online presence or post, you can graciously acknowledge it with a thank you that reflects your style and personality, showing that you value their intent and thoughtfulness. Example: saying “Wow, I’m really glad you shared that with me! Your kind words mean a lot,” balances being playful, sincere, and diplomatic, while keeping the tone light and friendly.
At the same time, responding to TBH messages about achievements, fitness journeys, or even a musical talent can highlight your genuine appreciation for the person’s effort. Recognizing someone’s hard work, dedication, or amazing work ethic can be as simple as saying, “I love how you’ve been working so hard on your goals—it’s truly inspiring!” Similarly, for jokes, light-hearted remarks, or friendly teasing, a Haha or laugh shows that you can maintain a playful and upbeat interaction without missing the positive vibe.
From editor choice examples to direct critique, using words like honest, commendable, remarkable, or uplifting demonstrates your heartfelt recognition of their character, uniqueness, and impact on your digital interactions. By combining acknowledgment, gratitude, and a touch of your own style or creativity, you can turn any TBH message into a meaningful, memorable, and sincere exchange that strengthens your friendship and connection.
1. “Aww, that means a lot—thank you for being honest!”
Best Use:
When someone leaves a sincere or heartfelt TBH. It shows appreciation and maturity.
Not to Use:
If the TBH was sarcastic or teasing.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That’s really sweet of you to say.”
- “Honesty like that is different!”
Example:
TBH: “You’re actually one of the nicest people I’ve met online.”
Reply: “Aww, that means a lot—thank you for being honest!”
2. “Haha, I’ll take that as a compliment!”
Best Use:
When someone’s TBH is playful or slightly teasing.
Not to Use:
If you’re unsure whether they meant it negatively.
Other Ways to Say:
- “I’ll choose to take that the positive way!”
- “Flattered… I think?”
Example:
TBH: “You’re kinda dramatic sometimes.”
Reply: “Haha, I’ll take that as a compliment!”
3. “Thanks for being real—means a lot.”
Best Use:
When you admire their honesty and want to sound grounded.
Not to Use:
For light or flirty TBHs; this one feels more genuine.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Appreciate your honesty!”
- “Real ones speak the truth.”
Example:
TBH: “You seem like a good person with a big heart.”
Reply: “Thanks for being real—means a lot.”
4. “You’re too kind! I wasn’t expecting that.”
Best Use:
When their TBH genuinely surprises you in a good way.
Not to Use:
If it’s a sarcastic or fake-sounding TBH.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Wow, that caught me off guard in the best way.”
- “Didn’t expect that, but I’ll gladly accept it!”
Example:
TBH: “You’re actually really fun to talk to.”
Reply: “You’re too kind! I wasn’t expecting that.”
5. “Honesty looks good on you.”
Best Use:
When you want to sound flirty or charming in response.
Not to Use:
In purely platonic or serious conversations.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That honesty just earned you points.”
- “Flattery and honesty—a perfect combo.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re kinda cute.”
Reply: “Honesty looks good on you.”
6. “I appreciate that—you’re awesome too!”
Best Use:
When you want to keep the energy friendly and mutual.
Not to Use:
If you don’t actually feel the same way (keep it genuine).
Other Ways to Say:
- “Right back at you!”
- “You’re pretty great yourself.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re so easy to talk to.”
Reply: “I appreciate that—you’re awesome too!”
7. “A TBH from you? That’s special!”
Best Use:
When it’s from someone you admire or like.
Not to Use:
If it’s just a casual acquaintance.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Coming from you, that means a lot.”
- “Wow, you just made my day.”
Example:
TBH: “You’ve got a great vibe.”
Reply: “A TBH from you? That’s special!”
8. “You didn’t have to go that hard!”
Best Use:
For unexpectedly kind or over-the-top compliments.
Not to Use:
If the TBH is neutral or basic.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Okay, stop before I blush!”
- “Dang, I wasn’t ready for that!”
Example:
TBH: “You’re literally one of the nicest people on here.”
Reply: “You didn’t have to go that hard!”
9. “That’s honestly one of the nicest things I’ve read all day.”
Best Use:
When their TBH really touches you.
Not to Use:
For short or casual TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You just made my day better.”
- “That hit right in the feels.”
Example:
TBH: “You’ve got such a genuine heart.”
Reply: “That’s honestly one of the nicest things I’ve read all day.”
10. “Can I frame that TBH?”
Best Use:
When the TBH is a total ego boost or funny compliment.
Not to Use:
If the tone of their TBH is serious.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Saving this one for bad days!”
- “Might make that my bio.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re lowkey a legend.”
Reply: “Can I frame that TBH?”
11. “You’re way too sweet, but I’ll allow it.”
Best Use:
When the TBH feels flirty or exaggerated.
Not to Use:
If they’re being genuine or vulnerable.
Other Ways to Say:
- “I’ll let that compliment slide.”
- “I don’t deserve that, but I’ll take it.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re literally perfect.”
Reply: “You’re way too sweet, but I’ll allow it.”
12. “That’s so thoughtful—thank you for noticing.”
Best Use:
For genuine or detailed compliments.
Not to Use:
For basic or vague TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “I really appreciate you noticing that.”
- “That’s very kind of you.”
Example:
TBH: “You always post such positive stuff.”
Reply: “That’s so thoughtful—thank you for noticing.”
13. “You’ve got good taste, clearly.”
Best Use:
When you want to add humor or light flirting.
Not to Use:
If they’re joking negatively.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Smart and honest—love that combo.”
- “Finally, someone who gets it.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re actually really cool.”
Reply: “You’ve got good taste, clearly.”
14. “You just earned a spot in my good books.”
Best Use:
When their TBH is uplifting or kind.
Not to Use:
If it’s sarcastic or confusing.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You’re officially on my favorite list.”
- “That comment just made my day.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re always so positive—it’s refreshing.”
Reply: “You just earned a spot in my good books.”
15. “Well, now I’m smiling—mission accomplished.”
Best Use:
When you want to show gratitude playfully.
Not to Use:
For serious or deep TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You win—I’m smiling now.”
- “That made my day instantly better.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re such good energy!”
Reply: “Well, now I’m smiling—mission accomplished.”
16. “That’s probably the nicest TBH I’ve ever gotten.”
Best Use:
When you’re genuinely touched or impressed.
Not to Use:
For average or simple TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You set a new standard for TBHs.”
- “I wasn’t ready for that level of kindness!”
Example:
TBH: “You’re one of the most genuine people here.”
Reply: “That’s probably the nicest TBH I’ve ever gotten.”
17. “I see you being all honest and sweet.”
Best Use:
For a playful or teasing vibe.
Not to Use:
If it’s a serious tone.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You’re being suspiciously kind today.”
- “What’s with all the sweetness?”
Example:
TBH: “You’re actually really cool.”
Reply: “I see you being all honest and sweet.”
18. “Appreciate honesty—it means more than you think.”
Best Use:
When the TBH feels real and personal.
Not to Use:
For quick, random TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Your honesty is refreshing.”
- “Thanks for keeping it real.”
Example:
TBH: “You seem like a genuine person.”
Reply: “Appreciate honesty—it means more than you think.”
19. “Stop, you’re going to make me blush!”
Best Use:
For flirty or exaggerated compliments.
Not to Use:
For serious or neutral TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You’re just saying that!”
- “Okay, now you’re making me shy.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re so attractive it’s unfair.”
Reply: “Stop, you’re going to make me blush!”
20. “You’re making it hard not to like you.”
Best Use:
When you want to keep the flirty energy going.
Not to Use:
In a friendship-only context.
Other Ways to Say:
- “You’re dangerous with compliments.”
- “Careful, I might catch feelings.”
Example:
TBH: “You have such a good vibe.”
Reply: “You’re making it hard not to like you.”
21. “You nailed that TBH—respect.”
Best Use:
For confident or straightforward compliments.
Not to Use:
For shy or personal TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That’s one solid TBH!”
- “Can’t argue with that one.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re really chill and easygoing.”
Reply: “You nailed that TBH—respect.”
22. “Guess I must be doing something right.”
Best Use:
When their TBH acknowledges your vibe or effort.
Not to Use:
For negative or teasing TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That’s nice to hear!”
- “I’ll take that as a win.”
Example:
TBH: “You always seem positive.”
Reply: “Guess I must be doing something right.”
23. “That’s the kind of honesty I can get behind.”
Best Use:
For thoughtful or balanced TBHs.
Not to Use:
If they’re joking or unserious.
Other Ways to Say:
- “Honesty like that is rare.”
- “Now that’s a solid TBH.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re cool but mysterious.”
Reply: “That’s the kind of honesty I can get behind.”
24. “You’ve officially made my day better.”
Best Use:
When their TBH genuinely lifts your mood.
Not to Use:
If the TBH was average or sarcastic.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That comment brightened my day.”
- “You win best TBH of the week.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re such a vibe.”
Reply: “You’ve officially made my day better.”
25. “Now that’s a TBH I’ll remember.”
Best Use:
When you want to end the exchange warmly or appreciatively.
Not to Use:
For negative or short TBHs.
Other Ways to Say:
- “That one’s going in the hall of fame.”
- “You just set the bar high.”
Example:
TBH: “You’re honestly amazing.”
Reply: “Now that’s a TBH I’ll remember.”
Conclusion
A TBH on Instagram can be more than just a passing comment—it’s an opportunity to connect, show appreciation, and express your personality. Whether you keep it flirty, funny, or heartfelt, the key is to respond authentically. A simple acknowledgment can build stronger bonds and make your interactions feel more real.
As someone who’s spent years observing social media trends, I’ve noticed that the most engaging conversations come from genuine, warm replies. So, don’t overthink it—just keep it real and kind.
Editor’s Picks: Top 10 Favorite Responses
- “Honesty looks good on you.” – Flirty, confident, and charming.
- “You didn’t have to go that hard!” – Funny and full of personality.
- “A TBH from you? That’s special!” – Great for someone you like.
- “Well, now I’m smiling—mission accomplished.” – Sweet and endearing.
- “Can I frame that TBH?” – Witty and Instagram-perfect.
- “Appreciate honesty—it means more than you think.” – Deep and sincere.
- “You’re too kind! I wasn’t expecting that.” – Humble and heartfelt.
- “Stop, you’re going to make me blush!” – Playful and flirty.
- “You’ve got good taste, clearly.” – Fun and confident.
- “Now that’s a TBH I’ll remember.” – A strong, memorable closing line.
