Feel free to call her “dude” too whenever you want since it’s a nickname she commonly uses anyway.
Look for other signs that you’re in the friend zone too. For example, if she only hangs out with you in a group or if she doesn’t open up to you, it might signal she just wants to stay friends. If you want to get out of the friend zone, avoid calling her “dude” back. It might make her think that you only like her as a friend too.
She may also call you “bro” or “brother” if she views you more like family.
If you’re feeling confused about her feelings, be straightforward and ask what she meant when she called you dude. You could say something like, “When you call me ‘dude,’ what do you mean by it?”[5] X Research source
Stay friendly and a little flirty when you’re talking with her, but try to avoid coming off too strong since it could push her away.
If you’re not sure about how she feels, look for other signs she likes you. She might make eye contact, play with her hair, or try to make extra time to see you.
If you want to ask a girl out when you’re friends, be open with how you’re feeling. Try something like, “Hey, I know we’re friends, but I think we could be something more. Would you want to go out on a date sometime?”[6] X Research source
She might use “dude” as a reaction right away when something makes her mad. She could say or text something like, “Dude, seriously?” right when her mood shifts. Reach out and ask if she’s mad about anything and what you can do to help. Hopefully, you can get some clarity and apologize if you need to.
You can ask her directly if there’s anybody else she likes. If you were already good friends, she might say something to you so your feelings don’t get hurt later on.
