A new survey reports that nearly 40% of Americans say they have gone on a date or accepted a dinner invitation primarily to get a free meal rather than for romantic intent. According to the figures cited by two outlets, 39.9% of respondents indicated they have done this, which is described as close to “4 in 10” people. The reports frame the result as related to dating etiquette and the way people approach modern dating, but they do not provide additional details such as the survey’s methodology, sample size, or demographics in the provided excerpts. Both sources present the same core finding: a sizable share of respondents acknowledge going on dates for food. The articles also note that the survey raises questions about expectations and norms in dating, while not attributing the behavior to specific causes. The information in these reports centers on respondents’ self-reported willingness to accept dinner invitations without romantic motivation.