We all have those little phrases and words we toss into conversations without thinking. But sometimes, they can make us sound less confident or less knowledgeable than we really are. Don’t sweat it—if this sounds like you, a few quick tweaks to your vocabulary can make a big difference. If you want to come across as sharper and more self-assured, here are 17 phrases to cut out of your everyday conversation.
1. “I think” or “I guess”
We all do this—starting sentences with “I think” or “I guess” when we know exactly what we’re talking about. Instead of softening your statements with these flimsy phrases, just say what you mean. For example, instead of “I think this might work,” try “This will work.” You’ll come across as more confident and sure of yourself.
2. “Does that make sense?”
This one can make you sound unsure, even when you’re totally clear. If you want to check in without sounding like you doubt yourself, say something like, “Let me know if you have any questions” or “I’d be happy to explain further.” You’ll come off much more confident while still inviting feedback.
3. “Like” (as a filler word)
We all know how easy it is to throw in “like” while we’re thinking, but it can make you sound unsure of yourself. Instead of filling space with “like,” pause and collect your thoughts. That small silence shows that you think before you talk—which makes you appear smarter.
4. “To be honest”
This one seems harmless, but it can come across as if you’re not always honest—like you’re making an exception this time. There’s no need to say it. If you’re sharing your thoughts, people assume you’re being truthful. Just say what you mean and leave out the “to be honest.”
5. “Sorry, but…”
How many times do we apologize before even getting to the point? Instead of saying “Sorry, but could I ask a question?” just say, “Can I ask a question?” There’s no need to apologize when you’re not actually doing something wrong. This is an easy change that makes you sound much more assertive.
6. “You know what I mean?”
Constantly asking if someone understands can come across as insecure, even if that’s not how you feel. Instead, try something like, “Let me know if you’d like me to explain more” or “Does that help?” You can still check in with the other person, but there are more confident ways to do it.
7. “I’m not sure, but…”
This phrase makes you sound unsure of what you’re about to say. If you’re genuinely unsure, say, “I’ll find out.” If you’re giving your best guess, just say it confidently. You don’t need to downplay your own intelligence.
8. “Just”
Using “just” weakens your point. “I just wanted to ask” or “I just thought…” makes your request sound less important. Drop “just” and simply say, “I wanted to ask” or “I thought,” and you’ll come across much more assertive and clear.
9. “Whatever”
“Whatever” can make you sound dismissive, like you don’t care about the conversation. If you really don’t have a strong opinion, it’s better to say, “I’m open to anything” or “I don’t have a preference.” It makes you sound more intelligent and less dismissive.
10. “It’s kind of…” or “It’s sort of…”
These phrases make you sound unsure of yourself. Instead of saying, “It’s kind of a good idea,” just say, “It’s a good idea.” There’s no need to beat around the bush—just say what you mean with confidence.
11. “No problem”
When someone thanks you, responding with “no problem” can sound like what you did could’ve been an issue. Try saying, “You’re welcome” or “Happy to help.” You’ll sound more professional and polite, and it shows you’re glad to be of service.
12. “I’ll try”
Saying “I’ll try” often comes across as noncommittal. Instead, say “I will” if you’re confident you can do something, or “I’ll do my best” if you’re not sure but willing to give it your all. It’s important to show confidence in your ability to follow through by reflecting it in your words.
13. “Actually” (when correcting someone)
Using “actually” when you correct someone can come off as a little condescending, even if you don’t mean it that way. Instead, simply offer the correction without the “actually,” or say, “Another way to look at it is…” It softens the tone and makes you sound like a master conversationalist.
14. “In my opinion”
If you’re speaking, people already know it’s your opinion, so there’s no need to announce it. Just state what you think, and you’ll sound more confident. For example, instead of “In my opinion, we should move forward,” just say, “We should move forward.” Have confidence in what you’re saying.
15. “Basically”
“Basically” is often used to simplify something, but it can sound repetitive or like filler. Instead, just get to the point without the word. People will still understand that you’re summarizing or simplifying, but you’ll command more attention by dropping it.
16. “I feel like”
This one can make your opinions sound too emotional or uncertain. Instead of saying, “I feel like we should do this,” try “I think we should do this” or “We should do this.” Whatever you’re saying will sound more thoughtful, and you’ll seem much more self-assured.
17. “At the end of the day”
“At the end of the day” is one of those phrases that’s become a go-to for wrapping up a point, but it doesn’t add much to the conversation—so ditch it. Instead, try using “Ultimately” or just say whatever it is you’re trying to say. It’s cleaner and makes you appear much more intelligent.
