Submitted by Shannon on 31st July, 07:38PM

If you have lost faith in your relationship but you don't know how to break the news, we consider the different ways to say 'it's over'.


Face to face

    * Upside: Shows respect, honesty, understanding. Good chance of staying friends, too.
    * Downside:Depending on the dumpee, you may be faced with tears or tantrums. They also might try and change your mind.
    * Decency rating: 8/10

Over the phone

    * Upside: If you're lucky, you'll get the answer machine. No chance of being physically assaulted. You also won't have to see the sad, sad look in their eyes as you break the news.
    * Downside: If you were relying on the answer machine, there's always the chance they may pick up before you've finished. Also the problem of them shouting or weeping down the line.
    * Decency rating: 6/10

By post

    * Upside: No chance of fluffing your words, or losing your bottle.
    * Downside: Letter can be shown to friends and used as evidence against you. Lengthens the whole process as you wait for them to receive your message.
    * Decency rating: 5/10

By email

    * Upside: It's swift and sure, and there's no room for misinterpretation.
    * Downside: It's as cold and heartless as the technology itself. Also risk getting into an email dialogue about the whole thing.
    * Decency rating: 3/10

By friend

    * Upside: All you have to do is relax and wait for your mate to deliver the news
    * Downside: You'll be classed as a coward until the day you die. Also could backfire if that so-called-friend of yours takes advantage of the situation. A sympathetic hug can lead to anything.
    * Decency rating: 1/10

By ignoring the person altogether

    * Upside: Involves least amount of effort. Just a question of holding your nerve.
    * Downside: Again, you'll be labelled a coward. Creates most amount of grief and can go on for a long, long time. Just think how you would feel in their shoes.
    * Decency rating: 0/10

By getting off with someone else

    * Upside: Sends out clear message.
    * Downside: There goes your credibility. You're risking a socially-humiliating situation and serious retribution from the ex.
    * Decency rating: -4/10