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"Why can't you just...?" -

Asking someone why they can just get over it or let it go or any of these phrases is very dismissive. If someone could simply forget about something, don't you think they would?

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"You're always so dramatic..." -

This phrase instantly labels someone as dramatic, dismisses their emotions, and belittles them. Whatever emotions someone is feeling is valid and should be taken seriously.

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"I tell it like it is." -

"I tell it like it is" is very presumptuous. There isn't a one size fits all approach to life, so claiming to speak on behalf of others isn't okay. Instead, say things like, " This is just my opinion."

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"No offense, but..." -

This unlikeable phrase often precedes something offensive. It's important to instead consider how different people prefer to receive different information. Starting a sentence with this can put people on the defensive.

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"I wish I had your..." -

While this may be intended as a compliment, for someone else it may be viewed as a comparison, stemming from jealousy or insecurity. Try to use a different compliment to get your point across.

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"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." -

First and foremost, there are many definitions of insanity, according to psychiatrists. Second, the phrase doesn't take into account why someone might be defaulting to what they already know.

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"Calm down." -

Telling someone to calm down is very invalidating and often has the opposite effect. Instead try to say something like, "I understand you and this does feel upsetting. Let's see how we can tackle this together."

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Using mental disorders to describe a normal idiosyncrasy -

When people use actual disorders as slang to describe what they're feeling, it takes away the impact for those actually suffering from the disorder. 

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"You look tired." -

This phrase should never be used. While it may attempt to be understanding, it often makes the recipient feel attacked. If they look tired, why is there a need to point it out?

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Referring to exes as ‘narcissists’ -

Simply because you wanted different things doesn't necessarily mean your ex was a narcissist. There are true narcissists out there, but not every ex is one.

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"As an empath…" -

Saying, "As an empath," gives an air of self-importance and shows that you are preoccupied with yourself. It shouldn't be about you if someone else is experiencing and expressing emotions.

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"This is how we've always done it." -

Innovation can help the world grow and function better every day. So, to say "This is how we've always done it," puts down the opportunity for innovation and experimentation. It says, "your idea isn't worthwhile."

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"I’m so OCD." -

Unless you have actual OCD, you shouldn't use this phrase lightly. If you are using it as a way to describe certain characteristics without actually having OCD, then it can be interpreted as mean, rude, and insensitive. 

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"I know how you’re feeling." -

This phrase may intend to show someone you care for them but actually, it can be very dismissive. You don't know how someone is feeling unless you are that person.

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Describing oneself as an ‘alpha male’ -

Describing yourself as an alpha can instantly make you unlikable because it often signals arrogance, a need to assert dominance, and a lack of humility.

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"No drama." -

If you are saying "no drama" to another person, it implies you are better at managing emotions than they are. In reality, this could be far from the truth. Don't try to belittle someone or be superior.

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"Ah, bless your heart..." -

At first, this may seem like a kind, caring thing to say, but the opposite is true. Saying bless your heart can come off as patronizing.

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"If you can't handle me at my worst you don't deserve me at my best." -

Handling someone at their worst can be extremely toxic. If someone is abusive or dismissive at their worst, then why should anyone have to deal with it? 

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Any "m not [insert something here], but…" statements -

Using any "I’m not [insert something here], but…" phrases can come across as disingenuous. It tries to mask something offensive, judgemental, or controversial.

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Using ‘corporate speak’ -

Someone who uses corporate lingo in everyday life might think too much of themselves. No one likes when someone uses language they can't understand or that is considered elevated but in the wrong setting.

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"I’m just being honest." -

It's a way to try and disguise something rude or harsh that's being said. While construction criticism can be helpful, blunt "honesty" is often meant to offend. 

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"I told you so." -

Though you might feel right or were actually correct, there's rarely a time when it's appropriate to say "I told you so." It makes you instantly unlikeable and seems like you're showing off.

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"It's not my responsibility." -

Saying, "It's not my responsibility," makes it clear that you don't care. It shows that you want no part in whatever is happening and can be read as very cold and dismissive.

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"Whatever." -

This dismissive word shows disrespect for others and their feelings and emotions. Instead try saying something like, "I see where you're coming from."

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"I don’t need toxic people in my life." -

This phrase attacks the other person and implies that you are toxic. This phrase tries to elevate the speaker and make them seem like they are rationale and calm when in reality it's usually not true.

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Putting others down to make yourself look better -

Using phrases that put others down is always a negative thing. If you have to insult someone else to look good, that's very sad and often backfires.

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"That's common sense." -

Saying that something is common sense is a way of articulating to someone that you think they're not smart. What is common sense to you may not be to someone else and shouldn't be thrown in someone's face.

Sources: (Parade) (UpWorthy)

See also: Fascinating language facts you didn't know

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