Politically Incorrect Words We Can’t Say Anymore (But Everyone’s Still Thinking)

Politically Incorrect Words We Can’t Say Anymore (But Everyone’s Still Thinking)

Times change, and so do the phrases that are socially acceptable to say out loud. While some of these expressions may have been commonplace in the past, they’ve now become outdated, offensive, or just plain cringeworthy. Still, they linger in the back of people’s minds, popping up as unspoken thoughts we quickly filter out. Here are 15 things you can’t say anymore—but let’s be real, they’re still floating around in some corners of our consciousness.

1. “What Side Of Politics Are You On?”

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Politics has become one of the most polarizing topics of our time. Asking someone about their political leanings is no longer a casual question; it’s a potential Pandora’s box. What used to be a lighthearted way to gauge someone’s views now feels like throwing a match into a pool of gasoline. According to a Pew Research Center study, partisan animosity has increased significantly in recent years, with many viewing the opposing party as a threat to the nation’s wellbeing.

This question often implies there’s a “right” or “wrong” answer, which only heightens the tension. It’s not that people aren’t curious—they are—but the stakes feel so high that most would rather avoid the conversation altogether. Today, even an offhanded political comment can spark debates that spiral out of control. It’s become safer to steer clear of politics entirely, keeping thoughts to yourself unless you’re in trusted company. The divide between ideological groups has turned this once-simple question into a loaded one. It’s not just about understanding someone’s perspective; it often feels like a test of loyalty or morality. In a time when politics seems to infiltrate every aspect of life, leaving this question unasked has become the unwritten rule.

2. “When Is Your Baby Due?”

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This question is a classic example of how good intentions can go horribly wrong. At face value, it seems harmless, even kind—an acknowledgment of an exciting life event. But if the assumption is incorrect, the resulting awkwardness is impossible to undo. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that weight gain during pregnancy varies widely, and many non-pregnant women may appear to have a rounded abdomen due to various factors. It’s best to avoid making assumptions about someone’s body or reproductive status.

The risk far outweighs any potential benefit of asking the question outright. It’s a reminder that assumptions, no matter how innocent they seem, can have unintended consequences. Even when curiosity strikes, it’s better to wait for the person to bring it up themselves. Compliment their smile or energy instead—something neutral that doesn’t tread into sensitive territory. In an age where body positivity and respect for personal boundaries are valued more than ever, this question feels out of place. It’s a small but meaningful shift in how we approach conversations about personal milestones. Avoiding this question isn’t just about avoiding embarrassment; it’s about respecting someone’s privacy and feelings. That extra moment of thoughtfulness goes a long way.

3. “Is That A Man Or A Woman?”

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There was a time when people felt entitled to comment on someone’s gender based on appearance. Thankfully, those days are fading, as society grows to understand that gender identity is deeply personal and not up for public scrutiny. This question is now seen as invasive, disrespectful, and completely unnecessary. The Trevor Project reports that gender identity is complex and personal, and making assumptions can be hurtful to transgender and non-binary people.

What’s more, this type of comment often comes from a place of ignorance or discomfort rather than genuine curiosity. For many, the focus should shift from labeling others to simply respecting them as they are. The world is moving toward inclusivity, and phrases like this only hold us back. It’s not about suppressing curiosity—it’s about redirecting it toward education and understanding. Gender diversity is a reality, and the sooner we embrace it, the better we can foster acceptance. Questions like this perpetuate stereotypes and undermine efforts to create a more compassionate society. By leaving this outdated question behind, we take a step toward acknowledging and respecting everyone’s right to exist as they are.

4. “You Throw Like A Girl”

Once a go-to insult on playgrounds and sports fields, this phrase has thankfully fallen out of favor. It’s rooted in outdated ideas about gender and ability, suggesting that girls are inherently weaker or less skilled than boys. Beyond being sexist, it’s dismissive of the effort and talent that many girls and women bring to sports and other physical activities. Research published in the Journal of Adolescent Research shows that such language can negatively impact girls’ participation and performance in sports.

But even though the phrase is rarely spoken aloud anymore, the attitudes it reflects still linger in subtle ways. Comments about someone’s ability shouldn’t be tied to gender, yet old habits die hard. Eliminating phrases like this is about more than language; it’s about changing mindsets and celebrating everyone’s potential. It’s a small but significant step toward dismantling gender stereotypes. Encouraging inclusivity and respect in sports and beyond means leaving these tired phrases in the past. Progress is about recognizing that skill, strength, and determination have no gender.

5. “Look, She’s Barefoot And Pregnant”

This saying harks back to an era when women were expected to be homemakers, their lives revolving around domestic duties and child-rearing. It’s steeped in condescension, reducing women to a single role while dismissing their ambitions and capabilities. Thankfully, society has largely moved past these archaic notions, but the phrase still carries echoes of an outdated mindset. Even as a joke, it reinforces stereotypes that many have worked hard to dismantle.

Women today are CEOs, scientists, artists, and leaders—and yes, some are also mothers, but that’s just one part of their multifaceted lives. Using this phrase, even in jest, feels like dragging progress backward. It’s a reminder of the narrow expectations placed on women in the past and why those expectations need to stay in the past. The phrase may have been considered harmless once, but its implications are anything but. Moving forward means celebrating women for their individuality, not boxing them into tired tropes. Let’s leave phrases like this behind and embrace a world where everyone is free to define their own path.

6. “Kids Should Be Seen And Not Heard”

At one time, this was a common belief in households, reflecting a rigid, authoritarian approach to parenting. The idea was that children should remain quiet, obedient, and out of the way—essentially invisible unless called upon. Today, this notion feels completely out of step with modern parenting, which emphasizes communication, respect, and nurturing children’s individuality. Children are encouraged to express themselves, ask questions, and share their thoughts, recognizing that their voices matter. Still, there are moments when this phrase might creep into the back of someone’s mind, like during a tantrum in a crowded restaurant.

The difference now is that most people recognize the importance of allowing kids to be kids, even if it’s occasionally inconvenient. Dismissing children as unworthy of attention or respect does them a disservice, stifling their confidence and growth. Modern parenting celebrates the messy, noisy, and wonderful aspects of raising children, leaving outdated sayings like this in the past. Instead of silencing kids, we now focus on guiding them, helping them navigate their emotions and find their place in the world. It’s a shift that benefits not only children but society as a whole, fostering empathy and understanding across generations.

7. “Man Up”

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This phrase has become a relic of a time when masculinity was narrowly defined by toughness, stoicism, and an aversion to vulnerability. Telling someone to “man up” implies that expressing emotions or seeking help is a weakness, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about what it means to be a man. In recent years, society has begun challenging these ideas, encouraging men to embrace their full emotional range without fear of judgment.

Even though this phrase is less commonly spoken, its essence still lingers in subtle cultural expectations. Many men feel pressure to conform to traditional notions of masculinity, even when those expectations clash with their mental health and well-being. The shift away from phrases like “man up” reflects a broader movement toward redefining strength as openness, compassion, and resilience. Leaving this outdated saying behind is a step toward creating a culture where everyone, regardless of gender, can feel comfortable being their authentic selves.

8. “Are You Stupid Or Something?”

Few phrases cut as sharply as this one. It’s not only rude but also deeply dismissive, turning a moment of misunderstanding into a personal attack. The question implies that intelligence is binary—you’re either smart or you’re not—and leaves no room for nuance or empathy. While people may still think it in moments of frustration, most recognize that saying it aloud is unnecessary and unkind.

Modern conversations emphasize patience and understanding, even when communication falters. Rather than resorting to insults, people are encouraged to reframe their frustration into constructive dialogue. The move away from phrases like this isn’t just about politeness; it’s about fostering a culture where mistakes are treated as opportunities for growth rather than reasons for ridicule. After all, intelligence isn’t about always having the right answer—it’s about being willing to learn and adapt.

9. “Stop Being A Crybaby”

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This phrase is a classic example of emotional invalidation, dismissing someone’s feelings as over-the-top or unnecessary. It reinforces the idea that showing emotion is a weakness, a narrative that has thankfully started to change. Society is beginning to embrace emotional expression as a healthy and necessary part of life, making phrases like this feel out of touch and insensitive.

While the thought might still arise in moments of impatience—like dealing with a dramatic reaction—it’s far more constructive to approach emotions with empathy. Acknowledging someone’s feelings doesn’t mean agreeing with their reaction; it simply shows that you respect their experience. The pushback against phrases like “crybaby” reflects a cultural shift toward valuing emotional intelligence and creating space for vulnerability. It’s a reminder that understanding and compassion go much further than criticism ever could.

10. “You’re Too Sensitive”

serious blonde woman sitting on bed
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Dismissing someone as “too sensitive” is an easy way to shut down a conversation, but it’s also a surefire way to damage trust and connection. The phrase trivializes someone’s emotions, making them feel like their reaction is the problem rather than addressing the situation that caused it. It’s a quick, thoughtless remark that often causes more harm than good.

Fortunately, people are becoming more aware of the importance of validating emotions rather than dismissing them. Instead of labeling someone as sensitive, the focus is shifting toward understanding their perspective and finding ways to resolve conflict without blame. Emotional sensitivity isn’t a flaw—it’s a sign of awareness and empathy. Leaving behind phrases like this paves the way for healthier, more meaningful relationships where everyone feels seen and heard.

11. “You Need To Take A Chill Pill”

If there’s one phrase that’s guaranteed to have the opposite of its intended effect, it’s “calm down.” Or “take a chill pill”. When someone is upset, being told to calm down often feels dismissive or patronizing, escalating the situation rather than diffusing it. The phrase implies that their emotions are inconvenient or irrational, which only adds fuel to the fire.

Instead of resorting to this unhelpful remark, people are learning to approach emotional moments with curiosity and compassion. Asking questions, validating feelings, or simply offering a listening ear goes much further in de-escalating conflict. The shift away from phrases like “calm down” reflects a growing understanding of how to navigate emotions effectively. It’s not about suppressing feelings—it’s about creating space for them to be expressed and understood.

12. “You’re Too Old For That”

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Ageism has a way of creeping into everyday conversations, and this phrase is a prime example. Telling someone they’re “too old” for a certain activity, style, or dream reinforces arbitrary limits based on age rather than ability or passion. It dismisses the idea that growth and exploration can happen at any stage of life.

Thankfully, attitudes are shifting, and people are starting to celebrate the idea that it’s never too late to try something new. Whether it’s picking up a hobby, starting a business, or embracing a bold fashion choice, age shouldn’t be a barrier to self-expression. Leaving behind phrases like this reflects a broader cultural move toward inclusivity and empowerment, reminding everyone that life is meant to be lived fully—no matter your age.

13. “That’s Not Very Ladylike”

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This phrase is rooted in outdated gender norms that dictate how women should behave, speak, and even sit. It’s a subtle way of policing femininity and reinforcing stereotypes that no longer hold water in a more progressive society. Though it’s become socially unacceptable to say this out loud, the ideas it represents still linger in certain spaces.

It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in challenging rigid gender roles—and how much further we still have to go. Leaving this phrase behind helps dismantle the idea that there’s only one way to be a woman. Instead, it opens the door for people to define their identities on their own terms, free from the constraints of outdated expectations.

14. “Boys Will Be Boys”

Historically, this phrase has been used to excuse bad behavior, particularly among young boys, by framing it as a natural and inevitable part of masculinity. It diminishes accountability and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about gender, implying that boys are inherently unruly and incapable of better behavior.

While it’s less common to hear this said out loud, the attitudes it reflects can still be found in certain environments. The pushback against this mindset is a testament to society’s growing recognition that everyone should be held to the same standard of respect and responsibility. It’s about creating a culture where character and accountability matter more than outdated notions of gender.

15. “You Look Tired”

Though often said with good intentions, this phrase has fallen out of favor for its backhanded implications. It’s rarely taken as a genuine expression of concern and more often comes across as a veiled comment on someone’s appearance. People may still think it when they notice someone’s fatigue, but they’re more likely to keep it to themselves now.

Instead of commenting on someone’s looks, offering support or simply asking how they’re doing is a much kinder way to connect. By leaving this phrase behind, we show that we value empathy over surface-level observations, creating interactions that are meaningful rather than awkward or hurtful.

Danielle is a lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience crafting relatable content for both major media companies and startups.