Treat You Better: Shawn Mendes Song Lyrics & Meaning

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 53 views

"Treat You Better" by Shawn Mendes isn't just a catchy tune; it's a heartfelt plea, a declaration of better treatment in a relationship. This song, released in 2016, quickly climbed the charts, resonating with listeners worldwide. But what's the real story behind the lyrics? Let's dive deep into the meaning and explore why this song continues to strike a chord with so many people.

Decoding the Lyrics: A Deeper Dive

At its core, "Treat You Better" is about witnessing someone you care about being mistreated and offering a superior alternative. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship marred by disrespect and emotional neglect. Mendes positions himself as the empathetic observer, someone who recognizes the protagonist's worth and believes they deserve better.

"I won't lie to you, I know he's just not right for you": This opening line immediately establishes the singer's perspective. He's not just guessing; he knows the current partner isn't the right fit. This confidence is crucial in convincing the listener (and the subject of the song) that he has something better to offer. The simplicity of the language, combined with the directness of the statement, makes it immediately relatable.
"And you can tell me if I'm off, but I see it on your face": This line highlights the singer's attentiveness and emotional intelligence. He's not just relying on hearsay; he's observing the subtle cues in the person's behavior and demeanor. He's showing that he cares enough to pay attention to the unspoken signs of unhappiness. This attention to detail is what sets him apart from the current partner.
"He's holding you back, he's hurting you bad": The lyrics become more explicit about the negative impact of the current relationship. The use of strong verbs like "holding back" and "hurting" emphasizes the severity of the situation. It's not just a minor disagreement; it's a pattern of behavior that's causing significant emotional damage. This directness is essential in conveying the urgency of the situation.
"I can treat you better than he can": This is the central thesis of the song. It's a bold claim, a direct promise of improved treatment. It's not just about being nice; it's about understanding the person's needs and providing a more supportive and fulfilling relationship. This line is repeated throughout the song, reinforcing the singer's conviction and commitment.
"Tell me why are we wasting time, on all your wasted crying": This line expresses frustration and impatience. The singer can't understand why the person is staying in a relationship that's causing so much pain. The phrase "wasted crying" suggests that the tears are unnecessary and avoidable. It's a plea for the person to recognize their own worth and take action to improve their situation.

The Music: Enhancing the Message

The music itself plays a vital role in conveying the song's message. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody create a sense of optimism and hope, counteracting the sadness and frustration expressed in the lyrics. The instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and a driving drumbeat, adds to the song's overall energy and appeal. Mendes' vocal performance is equally compelling, conveying both vulnerability and confidence.

The Impact of "Treat You Better"

"Treat You Better" resonated with a wide audience because it tapped into a universal desire for healthy and respectful relationships. The song's message of empowerment and self-worth encouraged listeners to demand better treatment in their own lives. It also sparked conversations about relationship dynamics and the importance of recognizing red flags.

Why the Song Still Matters

Even years after its release, "Treat You Better" remains relevant because its message is timeless. The song reminds us that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, respect, and empathy. It's a reminder to recognize our own worth and to not settle for anything less than we deserve. It's a call to action to create healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Ultimately, "Treat You Better" is more than just a pop song; it's a statement about human connection and the importance of treating each other with dignity and respect. It's a reminder that we all have the power to choose better, both for ourselves and for those we care about. So, the next time you hear this song, take a moment to reflect on its message and consider how you can treat yourself and others better.

Shawn Mendes - Treat You Better Lyrics

Here are the full lyrics to "Treat You Better" by Shawn Mendes:

[Verse 1] I won't lie to you I know he's just not right for you And you can tell me if I'm off But I see it on your face

[Pre-Chorus] I know he hurts you, baby That's no way to treat a lady I can treat you better

[Chorus] I know I can treat you better than he can And any girl like you deserves a gentleman Tell me why are we wasting time On all your wasted crying When you should be with me instead? I know I can treat you better Better than he can

[Verse 2] I'll stop time for you The second you say you'd like me to I just wanna give you the loving that you're missing Baby, just to wake up with you Would be everything I need and this could be so different

[Pre-Chorus] Tell me what he does to make you feel so insecure 'Cause I could never let you hurt

[Bridge] Better than he can Better than he can

[Outro] Better than he can Better than he can Better than he can I can treat you better

FAQs About "Treat You Better"

What is the main message of "Treat You Better"?

The main message of "Treat You Better" is about recognizing your worth and not settling for mistreatment in a relationship. It's a declaration of offering a better alternative, promising kindness, respect, and empathy.

Who is Shawn Mendes singing about in "Treat You Better"?

The song doesn't specify a particular person. It's a general expression of offering better treatment to someone who is currently in an unsatisfying or abusive relationship.

What makes "Treat You Better" so popular?

"Treat You Better" gained popularity due to its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and the universal desire for healthy and respectful relationships. The song's message of empowerment and self-worth resonated with a wide audience.

What is the genre of the song "Treat You Better"?

"Treat You Better" is generally categorized as pop, with elements of pop-rock and teen pop.

When was "Treat You Better" released?

"Treat You Better" was released on June 3, 2016, as the lead single from Shawn Mendes' second studio album, Illuminate.

Is "Treat You Better" based on a true story?

Shawn Mendes has not explicitly stated that "Treat You Better" is based on a specific true story from his own life. However, the themes explored in the song are universally relatable, suggesting it could be inspired by observations or experiences relevant to many people.

What are some similar songs to "Treat You Better"?

If you enjoy "Treat You Better", you might also like songs with similar themes of relationship dynamics and offering a better alternative, such as:

"Stitches" - Shawn Mendes
"Love Yourself" - Justin Bieber
"When I Was Your Man" - Bruno Mars
"Jar of Hearts" - Christina Perri
"Someone Like You" - Adele

What does the phrase "any girl like you deserves a gentleman" mean in "Treat You Better"?

This phrase emphasizes the singer's belief that the girl he's addressing is worthy of respect, kindness, and someone who treats her well. It's a statement about deserving a partner who embodies positive qualities and provides a healthy relationship.

How does Shawn Mendes use his voice to convey the emotion of the song?

Mendes uses a combination of vulnerability and confidence in his vocal delivery. He showcases his range with powerful notes while also conveying sincerity and empathy, drawing listeners into the emotional narrative of the song.

What impact did the music video have on the song's overall message?

The music video for "Treat You Better" features a storyline about domestic violence, which reinforces the song's message about the importance of healthy relationships and not tolerating mistreatment. It adds a visual layer that highlights the seriousness of the issue and encourages viewers to seek help if they are in a similar situation.

What are the key takeaways from analyzing the lyrics of "Treat You Better"?

The key takeaways from analyzing the lyrics of "Treat You Better" include the importance of recognizing one's worth, not settling for mistreatment, and offering empathy and support to those in unhealthy relationships. The song promotes the idea of choosing better and creating healthier connections with others. Guys, hope you have a better understanding of the song.