11 Ways a Cancer Man Tests You (and How to React)

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Sensitive and undeniably loyal, a Cancer man can sweep you off your feet in a heartbeat. If he likes you, chances are he’ll start testing you to see if you’re truly the one. Cancers can be quite mysterious and hard to read at times, so we’ve put together a list of signs to help you out. Keep reading to find out how a Cancer man can test you in a relationship and why.

1

He watches how you treat other people.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cancers are water signs, meaning that they’re super sensitive and rather emotional. Because of this, he’ll want to know if you’re capable of treating him with the empathy he needs. He’ll pay attention to how you react when someone’s emotional and if you support your friends. He needs reassurance and tenderness in a relationship, and the best way to find that out is to see how you act when you think no one is watching. [1]
    • Be your authentic self when you’re around him to show him who you are inside and out.
    2. Advertisement
2

He asks about your family.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Asking about your upbringing and family dynamics helps him learn more about you and your values. The 4th House , otherwise known as the House of Home and Family, rules his zodiac sign. With this, he is very connected to his own family, and wants to know if you share the same devotions and loyalties.
    • Let him know if talking about your family is triggering. He’s looking for honesty and vulnerability, and the last thing he wants is to make you uncomfortable.
3

He tells his friends and family about you.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    With the 4th House ruling his zodiac sign, it’s no surprise that he cherishes his relationships. The opinions of his friends and family matter most to him, so he’ll tell them all about you if he's serious about you. He’ll most likely want you to meet them, and how you get along with his homies could be a deal maker or breaker.
    • Ask him questions when he mentions his loved ones. Showing an interest in his life can help you past his test.
    • It can be nerve-wracking meeting the friends and family of the man you care about for the first time, but you got this! Take a deep breath and remember to be yourself.
    2. Advertisement
4

He asks about your passions and aspirations.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    By asking about your biggest hopes and dreams, he’s testing how open you can be with him. He wants to know what makes you tick, so tell him about your life goals and ambitions, no matter how strange or obscure.
    • Ask him about his desires and aspirations in return. Showing an interest in his personal life tells him that you care just as deeply about him as he does about you.
5

He showers you with presents.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A Cancer man will stop at nothing to show you how much he cares about you. He’ll surprise you with gifts, whether it’s a sparkling piece of jewelry that highlights your eyes or the dish detergent you keep forgetting to buy. He notices the little things, and appreciating his efforts can go a long way. [2]
    • Thank him for the gift if it’s something you truly appreciate.
    • Put his gifts to good use! This will show him that he’s doing something right.
    • Consider giving him a surprise gift in return. Cancer men are very sentimental, so give him a gift from the heart like something handmade or that reminds you of them.
    2. Advertisement
6

He opens up emotionally.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Although sensitive, he won’t share his deepest thoughts to just anyone. His ruling planet is the Moon, which makes him extremely protective about how he expresses himself. Opening up emotionally is a giant step for him, and how you react can be a telling sign of if he wants to continue with the relationship.
    • Be supportive when he does come to you. He craves validation and a listening ear. [3]
    • Being vulnerable isn’t easy for him, so be authentic and supportive.
    • Share your feelings with him in return. This is a great way to show that you trust him too.
7

He leaves his phone unlocked around you.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/be\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It’s no coincidence if he leaves his phone unlocked next to you while he’s in the other room. This little test will prove if you believe him to be as loyal as he says he is. Rather than flicking through his messages and emails, leave the phone untouched or call out that he left his phone behind.
    • Follow suit and leave your phone unlocked in his presence. This shows that you trust him too.
    • If you both trust each other wholeheartedly, you won’t need to scroll without permission.
    2. Advertisement
8

He starts serious conversations.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    He may open up a political or confrontational conversation to gather how you react to a surprise debate. He wants to feel secure and comfortable when he’s with someone, and that includes being able to share and respect each other’s beliefs. He already bottles up his emotions and thoughts from the world, and the last thing he wants to do is hide them from you.
    • If he opens up a conversation or asks a serious question, he wants to talk about it. Cancers are empathetic, so he won’t introduce a topic he isn’t comfortable exploring.
    • Try not to alter your natural reactions and opinions. He’s doing this to get to know you better, so be authentically you.
9

He invites you to hang out with him.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e4\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    He’s 100% devoted to the relationship. To him, spending quality time with each other is extremely important. He might start asking you out every other night or spontaneously texting you about a new restaurant in town. Take this as an opportunity to show him you want to spend more time with him. [4]
    • Go the extra mile and invite him out first. This is a great way to tell him you’re just as committed to the relationship as he is.
    2. Advertisement
10

He asks you about your future.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/69\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/69\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To make sure you’re his perfect match, he may test you by asking you detailed questions about the future. Do you want kids? What does your dream job look like? Where do you want to live? These are all things he could bring up at any moment to get your honest reaction.
    • Be truthful with him about what you want and where you see yourself in ten years.
    • Who knows? You may discover that you want the same things!
11

He starts pushing you away.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/74\/How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Does-a-Cancer-Man-Test-You-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The last thing he wants is to lose you, but he has to know if you feel as strongly for him as he does for you. He may start backing off a bit. Maybe he texts you less or asks you out on fewer dates. Take the initiative and shower him with affection to say, “I don’t want to lose you.”
    • Capture his attention with a romantic gesture. Take him on a special trip full of nostalgia or surprise him with a homemade cake. [5]
    2. Advertisement

Learn How to Date a Cancer with this Expert Series

Cancers are a complex mix of loyalty, romance, and dynamism. It can take patience to attract a Cancer, but it's absolutely worth it. This expert series will help you date the Cancer of your dreams.
1
How to Meet and Date a Cancer Sign
2
Flirt With a Cancer
3
Cancer Compatibility: What Zodiac Sign Is Most Compatible with Cancer?
4
Deal with a Moody Cancer Man
5
Understand a Cancer Woman
6
11 Ways to Make a Cancer Woman Jealous

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do you know if a Cancer man is into you?
    Stina Garbis
    Psychic Astrologer
    Reverend Stina Garbis is a Psychic Astrologer and the Owner of Psychic Stina. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in providing personal and professional advice through astrology and tarot card readings. Reverend Stina has experience working with high-profile celebrities, sports figures, politicians, and CEOs. She has been featured in many publications, including Bustle, Vice, The New York Post, and Readers’ Digest and she also has a 200k+ following on TikTok. Stina holds an Ordained Minister License from The International Metaphysical Ministry University Seminary.
    Stina Garbis
    Psychic Astrologer
    Expert Answer
    He'll want to be really close and helpful to you, as well as provide a lot of emotional support.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 10
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      Capricorn and Cancer Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      Aquarius and Virgo Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      How to
      Make a Scorpio Man Obsessed with You
      6 Zodiac Signs That Could Be Gemini's Soulmate
      Aries and Gemini Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      How to
      Get a Taurus Man to Chase You
      How to
      Know if a Scorpio Man Likes You
      Signs an Aquarius Man is in Love with You, Plus Compatibility Tips
      Capricorn and Leo Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      How to
      Make an Aquarius Man Addicted to You
      A Leo Man in Love: 12 Undeniable Signs He's Fallen for You
      Aquarius and Aries Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      Libra and Scorpio Compatibility: Love, Sex, and More
      How to Know When (and Why) a Scorpio Guy is Hiding His Feelings
      Advertisement

      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about zodiac relationships, check out our in-depth interview with Stina Garbis .

      References

      1. ↑ https://cafeastrology.com/articles/cancermanlove.html
      2. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a25588060/cancer-man-personality-traits/
      3. ↑ https://www.vice.com/en/article/kzv4vw/zodiac-horoscope-astrology-dating-cancer
      4. ↑ Stina Garbis. Psychic Astrologer. Expert Interview. 14 February 2022.
      5. ↑ https://www.costarastrology.com/zodiac-signs/cancer-sign

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 60,007 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement