Sometimes we’re all guilty of saying things that we think will make us sound cool or smart, but they actually have the opposite effect.
It’s not the end of the world — everyone puts their foot it in every once in a while. However, if any of these phrases are part of your regular lexicon, you may want to switch up the way you speak. Otherwise, people aren’t going to think you’re clever and sophisticated — they’re going to think you’re try-hard and kinda sad.
1. “I only drink [insert fancy wine label here].”
Being a fan of good wine is great, but telling everyone you’ll only drink one specific high-end label? That can make it sound like you care more about the price tag than the taste. Instead, just say you love a good wine and share what you like about it—you’ll come off as a lot more relatable.
2. “I just got back from my trip to Europe.”
There’s nothing wrong with talking about travel, but name-dropping “Europe” like it’s a VIP pass can seem a little boastful. If you’re sharing your experiences, mentioning specific places or highlights makes the conversation feel less like showing off. Plus, everyone loves a good travel story when it feels genuine.
3. “You probably haven’t heard of it; it’s pretty underground.”
Ah, the classic hipster phrase. Whether it’s a band, movie, or coffee shop, saying something is “too underground” just makes you sound exclusive and, well, a bit out of touch. Instead, try sharing what you love about it without the gatekeeping—people might get excited to check it out!
4. “Oh, I only buy organic.”
Choosing organic is fine, but making a point of it in casual conversation can come off as self-righteous. If you want to chat about healthy choices, mention the benefits you enjoy without the “only” part. It feels a lot more friendly and approachable.
5. “I couldn’t possibly live without my personal trainer.”
Having a trainer is a luxury, and dropping it into conversations can sound a bit disconnected. Instead, you could talk about what you enjoy about your workouts or how they make you feel, which keeps things positive and grounded. Fitness is relatable—flaunting personal trainers, not so much.
6. “This reminds me of my time at [insert elite university].”
If every topic somehow brings up your alma mater, especially if it’s Ivy League, it can come off as bragging. While being proud of your education is great, letting your experiences speak for themselves is even better. Share insights, not the school’s name, and people will appreciate your perspective more.
7. “I have to check my portfolio before making any decisions.”
Unless you’re in a serious investment meeting, bringing up your “portfolio” sounds a bit out of touch. People appreciate financial smarts, but casually mentioning your portfolio can seem overly formal. Just say you’re being careful with spending or budgeting—it’s relatable without the Wall Street vibe.
8. “I only shop at [insert luxury brand].”
Dropping high-end brand names into everyday conversations can come across as snobbish. Instead, you could mention what you like about certain styles or trends without the brand emphasis. Fashion is fun, and focusing on personal style feels way more accessible than name-dropping.
9. “My therapist says…”
Therapy is a great tool, but constantly quoting your therapist can make you seem overly analytical. Mentioning a helpful insight is one thing, but repeating “my therapist says” can come across as detached. Instead, share the takeaway without making it sound like a formal lesson—it feels more natural.
10. “I can’t believe people don’t know about [random obscure topic].”
Assuming everyone should know niche facts can come off as condescending. Instead of sounding shocked, introduce the topic with curiosity or enthusiasm. A little humility makes you sound knowledgeable but approachable, and people will actually be interested in what you’re saying.
11. “I only listen to vinyl; it has superior sound quality.”
Vinyl is great, but acting like it’s the only way to listen to music can make you seem out of touch. Share your love for vinyl without putting down other formats—it keeps the conversation open and shows that you just love music, period.
12. “We summer in [fancy location].”
Source: Unsplash The phrase “we summer” is a quick way to sound disconnected from reality. Instead of announcing seasonal getaways, just talk about places you’ve visited or hope to visit. Sharing travel stories without the fanfare makes you seem much more down-to-earth.
13. “I’m actually quite a foodie.”
Calling yourself a “foodie” can sometimes sound like you’re setting yourself apart from those who just enjoy eating. Instead, share what you love about different foods or dishes without the title. It’s less about the label and more about enjoying the experience.
14. “I could never live without [insert luxury item].”
We all have our favourite things, but announcing you “could never live without” a luxury item can make you sound a bit over-the-top. Try focusing on what you love about it without making it sound essential. It’s about showing appreciation, not dependence.
15. “Well, as someone who’s well-travelled…”
Source: Unsplash This phrase sounds like you’re placing yourself on a pedestal. Instead of pointing out your “worldly” experience, just share interesting stories from your travels. People will appreciate the story without the need for a “well-travelled” label.
16. “You really should read [insert philosophical classic].”
Source: Unsplash Recommending books is great, but acting like everyone “should” read a classic can feel a bit pushy. Instead, share why you enjoyed it or what you got out of it without making it sound like an assignment. Everyone loves a good book suggestion when it’s friendly and casual.
