Why is it that a few little words out of someone’s mouth can drive you absolutely insane?
Maybe they talk in TikTok catchphrases (“It’s giving…”) or like they’ve watched one too many episodes of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (“Slay!”). Either way, they come off as disingenuous, try-hard, and really, really obnoxious. However, you’re not immune here. If you use any of these more common sayings, you may be getting on people’s nerves without realising it.
1. “Just saying.”
This is often tacked on after a comment that might come across as rude or unnecessary. It’s like a quick way to say something judgemental and then shrug it off, but after a while, it can start to feel passive-aggressive. It often makes people wonder why you needed to “just say” it in the first place.
2. “To be honest with you…”
While it might sound harmless, using this too much can make people wonder if you’re only being honest now, or if it’s just filler. It can unintentionally make people question if you’re usually holding something back. Instead of reassuring people, it sometimes has the opposite effect and sounds suspicious.
3. “Literally.”
This word is used so often and so inaccurately that it’s almost lost its meaning. People use it to exaggerate everything, from “literally dying” to “literally starving,” even when they’re perfectly fine. The overuse can make people feel like your stories are less believable or overly dramatic.
4. “It’s fine.”
This one can be tricky because it’s often used to brush something off or avoid conflict, but it rarely means everything is actually fine. Overusing “it’s fine” can create tension, especially if people start feeling they’re not getting the whole story. It often leaves people unsure of where they stand or if they should press further.
5. “Whatever.”
While it might seem casual, “whatever” can come across as dismissive or even rude. It’s often used to shut down a conversation, and people around you might feel like you’re not interested in listening or solving issues. When people hear “whatever,” they often feel like the discussion is being closed down unfairly.
6. “Sorry, not sorry.”
This might sound playful, but over time it comes off as unapologetic and even a little snarky. When used too much, it can make people think you’re just looking for an excuse to be blunt or rude. It often makes people feel like you’re trying to avoid accountability for what you’ve said.
7. “It’s all good.”
Similar to “it’s fine,” this is often used to brush off situations, but it can start to sound insincere. People might feel like you’re glossing over things rather than addressing issues honestly. It can make people feel as if you’re putting on a positive front instead of really addressing what’s going on.
8. “Do you know what I mean?”
After every sentence, asking this can get irritating fast. It might make people feel like you don’t trust them to understand what you’re saying. When overused, it can sound like you’re begging for constant reassurance or not confident in what you’re saying.
9. “I’m just keeping it real.”
This tends to be said as a way to say something blunt, but it can come off as an excuse to be harsh or unkind. People might feel you’re justifying rude behaviour rather than actually being honest. It often sounds like an attempt to avoid taking responsibility for how your words come across.
10. “Living my best life.”
It sounds inspiring, but if used too much, it starts to feel performative or even braggy. People around you might feel like you’re putting on a show or trying to one-up everyone, rather than genuinely sharing something positive. It can make people feel like you’re more focused on appearances than authenticity.
11. “I’m just a perfectionist.”
Overusing this one can make it sound like you’re looking for validation or trying to justify being overly critical. People might start to feel like it’s an excuse for being difficult to work with rather than a personality trait. It can also make people feel like you’re not open to feedback or change.
12. “Good vibes only.”
This phrase has good intentions but can feel like it’s shutting down real feelings or difficult conversations. When people hear “good vibes only” too often, they might think you’re avoiding reality or not open to hearing about real issues. It often feels like a barrier to discussing anything that isn’t upbeat or positive.
13. “You do you.”
This one sounds supportive, but over time it can come across as dismissive, especially when someone’s looking for advice or help. People might feel like you’re just brushing them off rather than actually engaging with them. It can sound like a way to avoid giving any real input or support.
14. “At least…”
People use this to try to make someone feel better, but it can come across as invalidating. If someone shares something tough and hears “at least,” they might feel like their emotions are being minimised. It can make people feel that their problems are being trivialised or brushed aside.
15. “It’s not rocket science.”
While it’s meant to say something is simple, this can sound patronising. People hearing it might feel like you’re talking down to them, especially if they’re genuinely struggling with something. It can make people feel as though you’re dismissing their effort or their process of learning.
