Ready to make your readers swoon, blush, or maybe even spit out their coffee in surprise?
Here is how to write a kissing scene:
Write a kissing scene by building tension through lingering glances and subtle touches, setting an emotional mood with the right environment, focusing on sensory details like taste and touch, expressing characters’ internal thoughts, showing actions instead of telling, and conveying the aftermath to impact the story.
This is your ultimate guide for how to write a kissing scene in your story with just the right amount of lip-locking magic.
What Is a Kissing Scene?
A kissing scene is that pivotal moment in your story where two characters express their feelings through a kiss. It’s not just about two sets of lips meeting; it’s a culmination of tension, emotion, and character development. This scene can:
- Reveal hidden desires.
- Advance the plot.
- Create conflict or resolution.
- Make your readers giggle, gasp, or grin like a Cheshire cat.
But let’s face it—writing a kissing scene can feel as awkward as a middle school dance. Do you go for steamy or sweet? Passionate or playful? Fear not! We’ll break it down together.
Types of Kissing Scenes
There is more than one type of kiss and, therefore, more than one way for your characters to pucker up:
- The First Kiss: The long-anticipated moment that makes hearts flutter.
- Forbidden Kiss: When characters smooch despite obstacles—think Romeo and Juliet but with fewer tragic endings (hopefully).
- Goodbye Kiss: A tender or heartbreaking farewell.
- Surprise Kiss: One character plants one on the other unexpectedly—cue the shocked Pikachu face.
- Reconciliation Kiss: Making up never felt so good.
How to Write a Kissing Scene in a Story
Ready to become the maestro of making-out scenes? Below are 10 tips, each unpacked like a gift basket full of writerly wisdom.
A well-crafted kissing scene can elevate your narrative, reveal deeper themes, and even pivot the plot in unexpected directions.
In this section, we’ll explore 10 comprehensive tips to help you write a kissing scene that’s more than just lips meeting lips.
Ready to make your readers weak in the knees? Let’s go!
1. Build Up the Tension
Why It’s Important: Tension is the simmering heat that makes the eventual kiss satisfying. Without proper build-up, the kiss can feel forced or unearned.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: Authors like Jane Austen and Nicholas Sparks are masters at slow-burning tension. They create layers of emotional and sometimes social barriers that the characters must navigate before the big moment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Develop Emotional Connection: Show moments where the characters bond over shared experiences or vulnerabilities.
- Use Subtle Cues: Incorporate lingering glances, accidental touches, or flirtatious banter.
- Introduce Obstacles: Create internal or external barriers that prevent the characters from immediately acting on their feelings.
- Escalate the Tension: As the story progresses, increase the intensity of their interactions.
Example Expanded:
Under the flickering streetlight, their conversation dwindled into a comfortable silence. Alex’s hand brushed against Jamie’s, neither of them pulling away this time. A soft current seemed to flow between their fingers. Jamie looked up, meeting Alex’s gaze—the air thick with unspoken words. “I should probably go,” Jamie whispered, but made no move to leave. “Yeah,” Alex replied, stepping just a fraction closer. The tension was palpable, like the charged air before a storm.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Use the tension to explore themes like forbidden love, trust, or personal growth.
- Plot Point: The build-up can lead to a critical moment where the characters must make a choice that affects the storyline.
2. Set the Mood with the Right Setting
Why It’s Important: The setting acts as a silent character, amplifying emotions and adding layers of meaning to the scene.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: In “The Fault in Our Stars,” John Green uses locations like the Anne Frank House to add emotional weight and historical context to the kissing scene.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Choose a Meaningful Location: Pick a setting that resonates with your characters’ journeys.
- Enhance Emotional Tone: Use the environment to reflect the mood—rain for melancholy, sunshine for joy, etc.
- Incorporate Symbolism: A setting can symbolize something greater, like a fresh start or impending doom.
Example Expanded:
The rain poured down, each drop echoing the turmoil inside them. They ducked under the small awning of a closed bookstore, the neon sign flickering above. “Of all nights to forget an umbrella,” she laughed softly. He smiled, “Maybe it’s fate.” The distant rumble of thunder matched the pounding of their hearts. The world around them blurred into a watercolor painting of lights and shadows.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Use the setting to mirror the internal state of the characters or to symbolize themes like renewal or isolation.
- Plot Twist: Perhaps the setting reveals a hidden secret or prompts a sudden revelation that changes everything.
3. Focus on Sensory Details
Why It’s Important: Sensory details immerse the reader in the experience, making the scene vivid and emotionally resonant.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: Diana Gabaldon in the “Outlander” series excels at using sensory details to make romantic scenes unforgettable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Engage All Five Senses: Don’t just focus on sight and touch; include sounds, smells, and tastes.
- Be Specific: Instead of saying “she smelled good,” say “the scent of jasmine in her hair reminded him of summer nights.”
- Show Physical Reactions: Describe the goosebumps, the quickening pulse, the warmth spreading through their body.
Example Expanded:
She tasted the sweet hint of cherry from his lips, a playful contrast to the bitter coffee they shared earlier. The roughness of his stubble grazed her cheek, igniting a tingling sensation down her spine. The soft sigh that escaped him resonated in her ears like a melody, harmonizing with the patter of rain around them. The scent of rain mixed with his cologne—cedarwood and something uniquely him—filled her senses.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Use sensory details to highlight contrasts or conflicts, such as the bitter and sweet elements representing their complicated relationship.
- Plot Point: A specific sensory detail could trigger a memory or realization that propels the plot forward.
4. Express Internal Thoughts and Emotions
Why It’s Important: Delving into the characters’ inner worlds adds depth and makes the scene emotionally impactful.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: In “The Notebook,” Nicholas Sparks frequently explores the internal struggles of his characters, enhancing the emotional weight of romantic moments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Use Inner Monologue: Share the character’s thoughts, fears, and desires.
- Show Conflicting Emotions: Internal conflict adds complexity.
- Align Thoughts with Actions: Ensure their internal state reflects in their behavior.
Example Expanded:
*His heart pounded so loudly he was sure she could hear it over the rain. Is this the right moment? Doubt flickered like the lightning above, illuminating his fears. But what if she doesn’t feel the same? Then he saw it—the warmth in her eyes, a silent invitation dissolving his hesitation. To hell with it, he thought, stepping closer. Some chances are worth taking.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Explore themes like vulnerability, courage, or the fear of rejection.
- Plot Twist: An internal realization could lead the character to make a surprising decision, altering the course of the story.
5. Use Show, Don’t Tell
Why It’s Important: Showing engages readers more effectively than telling, allowing them to experience the scene alongside the characters.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: Ernest Hemingway was a master of the “Iceberg Theory,” revealing only the tip and letting readers infer the rest.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Use Descriptive Actions: Show emotions through body language.
- Employ Metaphors and Similes: Creative comparisons can illustrate feelings without stating them outright.
- Avoid Over-Explanation: Trust your readers to pick up on cues.
Example Expanded:
Her fingers trembled slightly as she reached up to brush a stray lock of hair from his forehead. The simple gesture spoke volumes—of care, of hesitation, of unspoken words hanging in the air. He noticed the way her breath hitched, a subtle pause that echoed his own internal flutter.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Use actions to symbolize larger themes, like the act of brushing his hair symbolizing the desire to ‘fix’ or ‘understand’ him.
- Plot Point: A small action could be misinterpreted, leading to conflict or a crucial misunderstanding.
6. Maintain Character Authenticity
Why It’s Important: Characters should act in ways that are consistent with their established personalities, making the scene believable.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: J.K. Rowling ensures that even in moments of high emotion, her characters act in ways true to themselves, adding depth to the narrative.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Review Character Profiles: Revisit their traits, fears, and motivations.
- Align Actions with Personality: An impulsive character may act spontaneously, while a cautious one hesitates.
- Reflect on Past Experiences: Consider how their history influences their behavior.
Example Expanded:
Being ever cautious, she hesitated, her gaze dropping to the cobblestones slick with rain. Memories of past heartbreak flashed in her mind. Do I dare let someone in again? Gathering her courage like a cloak around her, she looked up, meeting his eyes. The vulnerability she saw there mirrored her own, tipping the scales. “Maybe some risks are worth taking,” she whispered.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Highlight themes like personal growth or overcoming past traumas.
- Plot Twist: A character acting out of character (with good reason) can surprise readers and add complexity.
7. Balance Dialogue and Action
Why It’s Important: A mix of dialogue and action keeps the scene dynamic and prevents it from becoming monotonous.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: In “Pride and Prejudice,” Jane Austen masterfully balances witty dialogue with meaningful actions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Write Natural Dialogue: Ensure it sounds like something your character would actually say.
- Use Actions to Complement Words: Have characters’ actions enhance or contrast their dialogue.
- Punctuate with Pauses: Use silences or interruptions to add tension.
Example Expanded:
“I’ve wanted to tell you something,” he whispered, his voice barely audible over the rain. She looked up, raindrops clinging to her eyelashes. “You don’t have to say it,” she replied softly, a small smile tugging at her lips as she stepped closer. He chuckled, shaking his head. “No, I think I do.” He reached out, his fingers gently brushing against her cheek. “I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time.”
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Dialogue can reveal underlying themes like honesty or destiny.
- Plot Point: A confession during the dialogue could introduce new stakes or conflicts.
8. Control the Pacing
Why It’s Important: Pacing affects the emotional impact of the scene. It can build suspense or convey urgency.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: Suzanne Collins in “The Hunger Games” uses pacing to heighten tension during key moments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Slow Down Critical Moments: Use longer sentences, detailed descriptions.
- Speed Up for Urgency: Use short sentences, rapid actions.
- Match Pacing to Emotion: Let the characters’ feelings dictate the rhythm.
Example Expanded:
Time seemed to slow as their faces inched closer, every second stretching into eternity. She could count each raindrop that traced a path down his cheek. The world held its breath. Then, like the sudden crash of a wave, their lips met, and time snapped back into motion—a whirlwind of sensations all at once.
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Manipulate pacing to emphasize themes like inevitability or chaos.
- Plot Twist: A sudden interruption could break the moment, introducing new tension.
9. Avoid Clichés and Overused Phrases
Why It’s Important: Originality keeps readers engaged and prevents the scene from feeling trite.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: Authors like Haruki Murakami use unique metaphors and unexpected descriptions to make scenes memorable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Identify Common Clichés: Be aware of phrases like “their hearts beat as one.”
- Be Creative: Use fresh metaphors and similes.
- Stay True to Your Voice: Let your unique style shine through.
Example Expanded:
Instead of “their lips met in a passionate kiss,” try: “Their breaths mingled, a silent dialogue of desire. In that suspended moment, they closed the distance between them, not with words but with the magnetic pull of shared longing.”
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Use original language to highlight the uniqueness of their connection.
- Plot Point: A unique observation could foreshadow future events or revelations.
10. Convey the Aftermath
Why It’s Important: The aftermath shows the kiss’s impact, affecting character development and plot progression.
How Bestselling Authors Do It: In “Gone with the Wind,” Margaret Mitchell uses the aftermath of romantic encounters to reveal character flaws and societal constraints.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply This:
- Show Immediate Reactions: Physical responses, facial expressions.
- Explore Emotional Impact: Joy, confusion, guilt, etc.
- Set Up Future Actions: How does this moment change things?
Example Expanded:
As they pulled apart, a shy smile played on her lips. She felt lighter, as if she’d shed a heavy cloak she’d been carrying for years. The unspoken promise of what could be hung in the air between them, delicate yet profound. “So,” he began, his eyes searching hers, “what happens now?” She laughed softly, “I guess we find out together.”
Elevating the Scene:
- Thematic Exploration: Discuss themes like uncertainty, hope, or change.
- Plot Twist: The aftermath could introduce new complications or resolve existing ones.
Check out this good video about how to write a kissing scene:
How to Describe Kissing in Writing
Still feeling tongue-tied? (Pun absolutely intended.)
Here’s a treasure trove of words and phrases to sprinkle into your scene like confetti at a surprise party.
100 Best Words to Describe Kissing in Writing
- Soft
- Tender
- Electric
- Hesitant
- Passionate
- Lingering
- Breathless
- Urgent
- Warm
- Gentle
- Intoxicating
- Sweet
- Fiery
- Delicate
- Eager
- Tentative
- Magnetic
- Intense
- Slow
- Quick
- Fervent
- Deep
- Subtle
- Teasing
- Fluttering
- Bold
- Shy
- Velvety
- Explosive
- Moist
- Rough
- Smooth
- Ardent
- Captivating
- Sensual
- Feverish
- Soothing
- Light
- Pressing
- Grazing
- Embracing
- Enveloping
- Exploring
- Searching
- Yearning
- Connecting
- Melding
- Harmonizing
- Synchronizing
- Brushing
- Caressing
- Touching
- Tasting
- Savoring
- Igniting
- Quivering
- Trembling
- Pulsating
- Racing
- Pounding
- Dizzying
- Exhilarating
- Melting
- Surging
- Swelling
- Overwhelming
- Calming
- Settling
- Grounding
- Anchoring
- Sparking
- Crackling
- Smoldering
- Glowing
- Shimmering
- Radiant
- Luminous
- Vivid
- Vibrant
- Rich
- Lush
- Resonant
- Echoing
- Reverberating
- Cascading
- Flowing
- Merging
- Entwining
- Weaving
- Unfolding
- Blooming
- Blossoming
- Awakening
- Stirring
- Arousing
100 Best Phrases for Writing a Kissing Scene
- Their lips met in a soft embrace.
- A tender kiss that spoke volumes.
- He pressed his mouth gently against hers.
- She melted into the warmth of his kiss.
- An electric current passed between them.
- Their breaths mingled in the cool night air.
- A hesitant kiss that blossomed into more.
- The world faded as they found each other.
- His kiss was a question; hers, the answer.
- They shared a kiss filled with unspoken promises.
- Her heart raced as their lips touched.
- A kiss that ignited a fire within them.
- He tasted the sweetness of her lips.
- Their kiss was a dance of longing and desire.
- She felt the world tilt as he kissed her.
- An urgent kiss that left them both breathless.
- Their lips moved in perfect harmony.
- A kiss that bridged the gap between them.
- She savored the moment, every second etched in memory.
- Their first kiss was everything and nothing like she imagined.
- He kissed her as if time stood still.
- A kiss that whispered of forever.
- Their mouths met in a feverish exchange.
- She felt anchored by the touch of his lips.
- A kiss that was both a beginning and an end.
- They lost themselves in a sea of sensations.
- His kiss left her dizzy and exhilarated.
- Their lips brushed, a fleeting touch that lingered.
- A kiss that unfolded like a blooming rose.
- She responded to his kiss with equal fervor.
- Their kiss was a silent confession of love.
- He captured her lips in a bold move.
- A gentle kiss that held a world of meaning.
- She returned his kiss with a soft sigh.
- Their kiss deepened, exploring new depths.
- A kiss that erased all doubts and fears.
- They pulled apart, but their hearts remained entwined.
- Her lips tingled from the warmth of his kiss.
- A playful kiss that turned serious in an instant.
- Their mouths found each other in the darkness.
- He traced her lips before claiming them.
- A kiss that tasted of hope and possibility.
- She leaned into him, their lips meeting softly.
- Their kiss was a collision of passion and tenderness.
- He drew her closer as their kiss intensified.
- A kiss that left them both wanting more.
- They shared a kiss under the starlit sky.
- Her lips curved into a smile against his.
- A kiss that sealed their unspoken agreement.
- He brushed a kiss on her forehead before their lips met.
- Their kiss was the culmination of unspoken desires.
- She felt his smile through their kiss.
- A kiss that carried the weight of their journey.
- They broke apart, foreheads resting together.
- Her fingers tangled in his hair as they kissed.
- A soft moan escaped as their kiss deepened.
- Their lips parted only to meet again eagerly.
- He whispered her name before their lips joined.
- A kiss that felt like coming home.
- She pulled him back for another lingering kiss.
- Their kiss was a delicate balance of give and take.
- He nibbled gently on her lower lip.
- A kiss that awakened something new inside her.
- They stood entwined, lost in their kiss.
- Her pulse quickened with each passing moment.
- A kiss that spoke the words they couldn’t say.
- He cupped her face as he kissed her tenderly.
- Their lips danced in a rhythm all their own.
- She felt lightheaded from the intensity of their kiss.
- A kiss that left a burning imprint on her soul.
- They kissed as the sun dipped below the horizon.
- Her hands rested on his chest, feeling his heartbeat.
- A kiss stolen in the quiet of the night.
- He lifted her chin before bringing their lips together.
- Their kiss was a silent melody of emotion.
- She sighed into the kiss, her defenses melting away.
- A kiss that bridged the distance between them.
- They broke the kiss, eyes locking in understanding.
- His thumb brushed her cheek as they kissed.
- A kiss that ignited every nerve ending.
- She stood on tiptoe to meet his lips.
- Their kiss was both a question and an answer.
- He drew out the kiss, savoring every moment.
- A kiss that left them both breathless and smiling.
- They kissed as if it was their last chance.
- Her lips were soft and inviting beneath his.
- A hesitant kiss that quickly grew bolder.
- They shared a laugh before their lips met again.
- He pulled her into his arms, their lips uniting.
- A kiss that eclipsed all previous moments.
- She felt tears mix with their kiss.
- Their kiss was a tapestry woven of shared dreams.
- He tasted the salt of her tears as they kissed.
- A kiss under the falling snow, delicate and pure.
- They leaned into each other, the kiss sealing their fate.
- Her hand rested on his cheek as they kissed softly.
- A kiss that promised more than words ever could.
- They parted slowly, the kiss lingering between them.
- He whispered against her lips before kissing her again.
- A kiss that started timid and blossomed into passion.
- She closed her eyes, losing herself in the kiss.
- Their lips met in a gentle collision of love.
- He felt her smile through the kiss, warming his heart.
- A kiss that felt like the beginning of everything.
5 Full Examples of How to Write a Kissing Scene
Time to see these tips in action! Here are five kissing scenes tailored to different genres.
Feel free to steal—er, be inspired by—them.
Romance
Scene: In the cozy nook of a café during a rainstorm.
The rain tapped rhythmically against the windowpane as Lily stirred her coffee for the hundredth time. “You know,” Mark began, his eyes never leaving hers, “I’ve always loved rainy days.” She looked up, surprised. “Why’s that?” He leaned in, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Because it gives me an excuse to do this.” Before she could reply, his lips met hers—warm, soft, and tasting faintly of caramel latte. The world outside blurred into a swirl of grays, but inside, everything was technicolor.
Why it Works: Combines a romantic setting with playful dialogue and sensory details.
Fantasy
Scene: Two warriors after a victorious battle.
Elowen sheathed her sword, turning to find Thorne watching her. “What?” she asked, arching an eyebrow. “Didn’t think you’d survive,” he admitted, a rare softness in his voice. She smirked. “You underestimate me.” “Perhaps,” he stepped closer, the air crackling—not with magic this time, but something else entirely. “Perhaps not.” Without warning, he pulled her close, their armor clinking, and kissed her with the ferocity of a dragon’s flame. She responded in kind, both of them momentarily shedding their warrior façades.
Why it Works: Fits the genre with battle references and strong characters while adding vulnerability.
Science Fiction
Scene: Amidst a spaceship malfunction.
“The reactor’s stabilizing,” Nova sighed in relief. Axel wiped a smudge of grease from his forehead. “You did good out there.” She laughed. “Save the compliments; we’re not out of the asteroid field yet.” A sudden lurch threw them together. “Sorry,” she mumbled, trying to regain her footing. He held her gaze. “Don’t be.” In the dim glow of emergency lights, he kissed her—a brief moment of humanity in the cold expanse of space.
Why it Works: Uses the urgency of the situation to heighten emotions.
Historical Fiction
Scene: Secret meeting during a masquerade ball.
Isabella adjusted her mask, her eyes scanning the crowd. A gloved hand touched her shoulder. “Looking for someone?” the stranger asked. “Perhaps,” she replied coyly. “Dance with me,” he requested, and they moved onto the floor. The music swelled, and she felt drawn to him in a way she couldn’t explain. As the final note lingered, he lifted her mask just enough to kiss her—a gentle, forbidden touch. She pulled back, heart racing. “Who are you?” He smiled mysteriously. “Someone who couldn’t resist.”
Why it Works: Captures the elegance and constraints of the era with a dash of mystery.
Young Adult
Scene: After a high school football game under the bleachers.
“You were amazing out there,” Jess said, kicking a pebble with her sneaker. “Thanks,” Ryan replied, his helmet tucked under his arm. An awkward silence stretched between them. “So…” they both started, then laughed. “You go first,” she urged. “I was wondering if—” He took a deep breath, then, in a burst of courage, leaned in and kissed her. It was quick, a little clumsy, but when they pulled apart, both were grinning like they’d won the lottery. “I’ve been wanting to do that all season,” he admitted. “Took you long enough,” she teased, cheeks flushed.
Why it Works: Captures the innocence and awkwardness of first love.
Final Thoughts: How to Write a Kissing Scene
Writing a kissing scene doesn’t have to be as terrifying as your middle school diary made it seem.
Embrace the awkwardness, the excitement, and the endless possibilities that come with two characters finally locking lips. Remember, it’s not just about the kiss itself but what it represents for your characters and their journey.