"How do I tell someone they have bad breath without being rude?"

The kindest approach is making it not about them at all. Offer gum or a mint by taking one yourself first and saying 'Want one?' with zero fanfare. If it's a close friend or partner and you need to actually address it, do it privately and frame it as something you'd want to know: 'Hey, I'd want someone to tell me this, so... I noticed your breath is a bit off today. Might be nothing, but wanted you to know in case you have meetings.' Keep it light, matter-of-fact, and then immediately change the subject.

Some tactful approaches: 1. Offer a mint: 'I'm having one, want one too?' 2. For someone close: 'Hey, just wanted to mention - might want to grab a mint before the meeting' 3. If persistent: 'I noticed something and wanted to tell you privately because I'd want to know. Your breath has been a bit strong lately - might be worth checking with a dentist' Key: Be private, brief, and compassionate.

Offer them a mint or gum casually. If you need to say something directly, do it privately and kindly. Something like 'I thought you might want to know' and suggest it could be worth seeing a dentist.