11 times Bridget Jones captured the awkwardness of dating

LONDON -- Don't believe a word of what they tell you. 

Dating in Britain is not the smooth, sexy operation that Tom Hiddleston would have you believe. 

Plagued with crippling British politeness and an accent that doesn't always lend itself to suave passionate declarations, British daters are oft lost in a minefield of fumbled embraces and cringeworthy attempts to ask people out.

The good news is: you're not alone. Bridget Jones -- queen of glorious awkward Britishness -- has been there, too.

When you're not looking your best and you see someone you fancy. 

It's a truth universally acknowledged that anytime you commit a fashion faux pas, you will cross paths with any of the following: crushes, exes, future partners, and the men and women of your dreams. And, yes, you will want the floor to swallow you up. 

When you're looking great and the universe conspires against you. 

Just when you were feeling fleek AF, the powers that be will bring you back down to size. Whether it's a bird using your favourite jumper as a toilet, a rogue puddle destroying your new suede shoes, or some ketchup on your crisp white blouse.

When you meet someone you like and you chat a load of rubbish. 

Note to self: silence is golden. 

When even your prospective S.O. is too awkward to make a move.

Hey, at least you're not alone in your awkwardness! 

When telling someone you like them is just too much.

Sometimes being single forever is preferable to telling someone you want to date them. 

When getting ready for sex = donning the dreaded granny pants.

Wearing the right underwear can mean the difference between an early night and a roll in the hay. Even if they aren't the sexiest pants in your drawer, do as Bridget does and lean in to your inner granny. 

When you try to sound smart and fail miserably.

It's pretty nerve-wracking in those early stages of dating and sometimes those nerves can trip us up. In the meantime, prepare yourself for some pretty awkward moments. 

When your attempts to be sexy are thwarted by... your mum. 

Note to self: never, ever answer your phone with the words "wanton sex goddess". 

When you want to say 'I love you', but you're just too British. 

Maybe we should just break up instead of enduring this awkwardness? 

When your outfit is totally wrong for the occasion. 

It's hard to gauge the dress code when you're going on a date. Do you put all your eggs in one basket (pun intended). 

When all of the awkwardness becomes too much for you.

All of the awkwardness can become too much. 

But, why not make like Bridget, and lean into your charming bumbling Britishness. You never know, your date might find you thoroughly charming. 

And, remember what Bridget says: you are a goddess, wanton or not. 

Happy dating!

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