We all know that one person who always has an opinion on everything, whether they actually know what they’re talking about or not. It’s tempting to roll your eyes, but sometimes these self-proclaimed experts say things that are just so wrong, it’s hard to resist pointing it out. Here are some of those classic know-it-all phrases and why you should steer clear of them.
1. “I’m not trying to be [rude/mean], but…”
If you have to preface your statement with this, you know what you’re about to say is going to land poorly. Own it, or just don’t say it. Plus, there’s probably a nicer way to phrase your feedback, even if it’s critical.
2. “Well, actually…”
The classic know-it-all move. Nitpicking tiny details and interrupting someone’s flow just makes you seem petty and obsessed with being right. Sometimes those little details genuinely don’t matter in the bigger picture.
3. “Let me play devil’s advocate…”
There’s a time and place to explore different POVs, but this phrase is often used to derail a conversation or introduce an offensive opinion just for the sake of being controversial or contrary. If you have a truly relevant counterpoint, just state it outright without the theatrics.
4. “Do your research.”
Saying this condescendingly implies the other person is ignorant. If you have valuable sources, share them. If not, maybe you need to do some research. Don’t just assume the other person hasn’t looked into something. You should be asking respectfully about what they might already know.
5. “I’ve been doing this longer than you.”
Experience matters, but it’s not the only indicator of knowledge. Shutting down someone’s input just because they’re newer to something is dismissive and unhelpful. Everyone has to start somewhere, and fresh eyes can sometimes spot solutions that experienced ones have overlooked.
6. “Back in my day…”
Things change! Relying on outdated experiences or clinging to “how things used to be” can make you seem out of touch and unwilling to learn new things. The world evolves, and the best way to stay relevant is to evolve with it.
7. “That’s just common sense.”
What’s common sense to one person might not be to another. This phrase is dismissive and minimizes other people’s experiences and understanding. What seems obvious to you might be a genuine blind spot for someone else – be patient and explain instead of belittling.
8. “It’s not that hard.”
Maybe it’s not hard for you. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. Belittling someone else’s struggle doesn’t make you look smart, it makes you look like a jerk. Offer help or a different perspective instead of making them feel bad for not instantly grasping something.
9. “I’m just saying…”
Often used before a vague or thinly-veiled controversial opinion. If you need to preface a statement this way, maybe reconsider whether you really need to say it at all. And if you must, own your words instead of hiding behind this weak disclaimer.
10. “I don’t mean to offend anyone, but…”
Spoiler alert: you’re probably going to offend someone. If you’re already anticipating your words causing hurt, it’s best to just keep them to yourself. Think before you speak, because it’s hard to walk back hurtful words even if you didn’t have malicious intent.
11. “You’re so sensitive.”
Invalidating someone’s feelings is rude, and it’s not up to you to decide what counts as “too sensitive.” Instead of dismissing their reaction, try to understand where they’re coming from and respect their emotions. Everyone’s entitled to feel how they feel, even if you don’t personally understand it.
12. “You’re taking this too seriously.”
What might seem minor to you could be a major issue for someone else. Don’t minimize their concerns. Instead, you should try listening and being genuinely supportive. Sometimes what seems like a small deal on the surface can be tied to much deeper experiences and sensitivities.
13. “Relax, it’s just a joke.”
Jokes can hurt feelings. If someone’s offended, apologize sincerely even if you didn’t mean to cause harm. Doubling down just makes the situation worse. A true apology means acknowledging the hurt you’ve caused, not justifying your actions.
14. “I’m entitled to my opinion.”
True, but you’re not entitled to be disrespectful. There’s a way to express opinions without tearing others down or acting like you’re the only authority on a subject. State your view clearly, but leave room for others to do the same.
15. “Don’t you know who I am?”
No one cares. Demanding special treatment based on your job title or social status isn’t impressive, it’s just obnoxious. True importance lies in your character, not your job title.
16. “Trust me, I know what I’m talking about.”
If you really know what you’re talking about, you shouldn’t have to announce it. Let your expertise speak for itself, don’t try to shout down others with empty assertions of authority. Facts and intelligent discussion will always impress more than bragging about your own knowledge.
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