how do i tactfully tell a friend i need space?

Question

Me & my boyfriend have been together for nearly 5 years & have lived together for abour 3 years. A male friend of ours (orginally my friend) has attached himself to us & visits us regularly - it has become routine for him. As a result of him being around a lot he sees all the day-to-day life stuff. me and my boyfriend have been concsious not to make him feel like a goosebury by not showing lots of affection- the knock-on affect is that we are begining to not cuddle much even when he is not there, as we have become used to being some kind of double act that bicker light heartedly. This friend has been in our mutual friendship group for years - it has got a bit much before- when i explained we needed some time together he was offended saying "well, why didn't you say so", that was a couple of years ago & its getting too much again, & he wont take a hint easily. He is nice guy, but has low self esteem in terms of thinking he can get a girlfirend etc, i dont want him to be a burden.

Answer 1

no- your relationship is important- maybe just take him to one side by yourself and just explain that you need a bit of space and that you and your partner want to maybe have a holiday together or something- just be honest- and explain that you are still his friend and enjoy his company but its too much- see how it goes,
good luck

Answer 2

He is going to be hurt one way or another.
Try doing alot more cuddling in front of him?
Used he fancy you? If so, that may stop him!

He probably knows he's there too much, but the hurt will subside and hopefully he'll spend the extra social time finding himself a girlfriend!!

Answer 3

try setting him up with a date. someone nice who you think is compatible with his personality. i know a guy who was like that but after the setup he got married, has a child and isn't around as much but is still a friend.

Answer 4

Just tell him to P*ss Off but say it tactfully!