Dear Amy: I’ve been single since high school (I’m currently 27 years old).

Dating has never been exactly a priority of mine, but I do want a romantic relationship in my life.

I’ve been on several dating apps for the past few years, and have finally matched with a real, genuine human (as a man, the odds of that happening are disproportionately slim).

We’ve been talking for a while, but I’m the one who’s been carrying the conversation.

I’m asking all the questions like, “What do you like to do in your free time?” or “How has your day been?”

She replies with very short answers that have made it increasingly difficult for me to proceed.

I know so much about her, yet she hasn’t exactly shown much interest in me.

I have mentioned a few things about myself organically, but she doesn’t respond very intensely to anything I offer.

There is the possibility that she would communicate better in person, but at this point I’m reluctant to get to an in-person meeting.

Is it wrong to make that assumption from our solely remote interactions?

Should I keep taking the initiative, though it’s like pulling teeth, or should I let her know that I’m not feeling a connection and cut the loose ties before anything gets too serious?

– Looking

Dear Looking: It’s hard to imagine things getting “too serious,” with this match, given your completely reasonable desire and expectation to have a relationship with someone who expresses an interest in you.

So yes, it is time to move on. You can reply, “I’m not sensing a connection here, but I wish you all the best in your search for a relationship.”

It’s not necessary to provide any further explanation, unless she asks for one.

You say you’ve been at this for some time without success, and so you should also take this opportunity to review the venues you are using to try to find a match, and to refresh your own technique.

Review (or have a friend) review your photos and your dating profile. Choose a variety of flattering but realistic photos of you in different contexts. Make eye contact with the camera. Spiff up your profile and narrative. Focus on dating apps that have a larger number of people in your geographical area.

I’m also wondering if you might have better luck finding real, genuine people in real life. You know – in person?

One way to meet new people is to actually meet people. This is done by renewing/reviving your IRL friendships, joining organizations aligning with your interests, getting out there, and greeting people with eye contact and a smile at the coffee shop.

If you are 27 now, I’m assuming that your 10th high school reunion is coming up. This is a great time and opportunity to connect with people you haven’t seen in a long time. Find your class reunion’s Facebook page and make plans to attend.

You can email Amy Dickinson at [email protected] or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068.