It's not necessarily "weird" to say, "I was just checking up on you" to a casual friend, but it can depend on the context and your relationship with that person. In some situations, it may be entirely appropriate and thoughtful, while in others, it might come across as too intimate or intrusive.
Consider the following factors before using such a statement:
Closeness of the friendship: If you have a relatively close and comfortable relationship with the casual friend, they might appreciate the concern and caring behind the statement.
Frequency of communication: If you don't usually communicate with this friend regularly, saying "I was just checking up on you" might feel sudden or unusual.
Recent events or circumstances: If there has been a particular reason for concern (e.g., illness, personal struggles), expressing your care might be more fitting.
Communication style: Some people are more open to expressions of care and concern, while others may be more reserved or private about their feelings.
Given these considerations, here are a few alternatives that might work better in certain situations:
- "Hey, it's been a while since we last talked. How have you been?"
- "I saw something that reminded me of you and thought I'd say hi. How's everything going?"
- **"Just wanted to drop a quick message and see how you're doing. Let's catch up sometime!"
By phrasing your message in a more casual and friendly way, you can show your care without putting too much pressure on the other person to share personal information if they're not comfortable doing so. Always be mindful of the individual's preferences and boundaries, even in casual friendships.