Ever wondered why some people seem naturally polished and persuasive? It’s not just confidence – it’s about the words they use (and the ones they don’t!). While the words on this list may seem incredibly common, well-respected people removed them from their vocabulary a long time ago.
1. “Hate”
“Hate” is a super intense word, and it can make you sound angry or dramatic. Try swapping it for something a bit softer, like “dislike,” “not my favorite,” or “not really my thing.” This way, you can still get your point across without going overboard. Words matter – they can make things better or worse!
2. “Can’t”
Saying “can’t” makes it sound like something’s impossible. Try using “won’t” or “haven’t yet” instead – it shows you’re in control and open to finding a way. Your words have power – they can make you sound defeated or ready to tackle a challenge!
3. Always/Never
Words like “always” and “never” aren’t usually true, are they? They make it seem like you don’t see the gray areas in life. Try using words like “often”, “sometimes”, or “rarely” instead. It shows you understand that things aren’t always black and white. Life’s messy, and your words should reflect that!
4. “Just”
That little word “just” can make you sound less sure of yourself. Instead of saying “I was just wondering…” try something like “Could you please…” It’s amazing how those tiny words can change the way you’re heard! Be clear and upfront with what you need.
5. “Like” (as filler)
You know how sprinkling “like” all over your sentences makes you sound less sure of yourself? Instead of filling the gaps with “like,” just take a second to breathe and think. You’ll sound way smarter and people will actually listen to what you have to say. Sometimes a little silence is way better than those filler words!
6. “Honestly” or “To be honest”
Saying stuff like “honestly” or “to be truthful” makes it sound like maybe you’re not always straight-up with people. Well-respected people earn trust by being reliable. Let your words speak for themselves. Don’t add any extra stuff that makes people wonder if you’re really being honest.
7. “Basically”
Using “basically” a lot can make it seem like you think you’re smarter than the person you’re talking to. Just skip right to the important stuff! People are capable of understanding things even if they’re a bit complicated, you know. Explain it clearly, and don’t act like you have to dumb it down.
8. “Should”
Telling people what they “should” do kinda makes you sound like a know-it-all. It’s way better to offer suggestions instead of making them feel like they have to do things your way. Try saying things like “could,” “maybe try this,” or “have you thought about…” This way, you’re still helping them out, but you’re letting them make their own choices and not feeling judged.
9. “Try”
Saying “I’ll try” makes it sound like you’re not really sure you can do something. It’s way more powerful to be direct and say “I will” instead. Like, instead of saying “I’ll try to be on time,” just say “I’ll be there at 5.” This shows people that you’re serious and they can count on you to get stuff done.
10. “But”
That little word “but” can be a bit of a buzzkill. It’s like you’re saying something nice, and then taking it right back. Try using “and” instead, or maybe find a way to say the good part of your sentence first. For example, instead of “You did a good job, but…,” you could say, “I appreciate how much effort you put in, and here’s something to make it even better…” It’s all about focusing on how to make things better, not just pointing out what’s wrong.
11. “Um” or “Uh”
We’ve all got those moments where we stumble around our own words — it’s totally normal! However, when you slow down a bit and take a quick pause instead, you instantly sound way more confident. Don’t be afraid of a little silence – it gives you a second to think and makes your words carry more weight.
12. “Literally”
The word “literally” gets thrown around way too much. Unless something REALLY happened exactly like you’re saying, it’s best to leave it out. Overusing it can make it seem like you always exaggerate, and people might not take you seriously. It’s way better to be accurate with your words so people know they can trust what you’re saying.
13. “Awesome” or “Amazing” (when overused)
They’re relatively cool words, but if you say them all the time, they start to mean nothing. When you really like something, try to be more specific about why it’s so great. Like, instead of just saying “awesome food,” say “This is the best pasta I’ve ever had – it’s so flavorful!” or something along those lines. There are tons of other great words out there to describe stuff you like, and it’ll make your compliments way more meaningful.
14. “Obviously”
Saying “obviously” can make you sound like a bit of a jerk, honestly. It makes the other person feel like they should already know something, and maybe they don’t! It’s way better to be understanding that everyone learns stuff at their own pace. Instead of acting like everyone should know what you know, just take a minute to explain things clearly and without judgment.
15. “Stuff” and “Things”
These words are super easy to use, but they make it seem like you either don’t care enough to be specific or you’re not totally sure what you’re talking about. Try to focus on using words that really describe what you mean. This way, people will actually understand you, and you’ll sound way smarter and more put-together. You’ll get a lot more respect as a result.
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