We all have those times when we’ve said something that comes off the wrong way—and it’s often because we use the wrong phrases. Some of the phrases we use make us seem a bit pretentious without us even realizing it, even though we’re not trying to be snooty! Here are ten everyday phrases that make you seem full of yourself. You don’t have to stop using them completely but you should at least be aware of how they come across.
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“Per My Last Email”
Sometimes we use “per my last email” at work when we think someone missed our previous message—but saying it comes across as rather snarky, like you’re annoyed they didn’t read it. In fact, it might create some unnecessary tension and that’s never a good thing. Instead, try keeping things friendly by restating the information or casually asking if they had a chance to look over your last message.
“Actually, It’s Pronounced…”
It’s okay to want to help someone out by correcting their pronunciation but starting with “Actually, it’s pronounced…” makes you come off as a know-it-all—it could even make the other person feel embarrassed. Unless their mispronunciation is confusing people, it’s usually kinder to let it slide and you should try dropping the correct pronunciation naturally into the conversation. Don’t make a big deal about it!
“As I Previously Mentioned…”
When we say “As I previously mentioned…”, it sounds like we’re saying that the other person wasn’t listening and that just seems passive-aggressive. It could even make things awkward so you should avoid saying that you’re repeating yourself. Just say it again & you’ll stop other people from feeling bad—and remember that, sometimes, people genuinely forget or miss things!
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“Let Me Teach You”
Saying “Let me teach you” is pretentious because you’re implying that the other person doesn’t know anything, even if you just want to share something cool with them. It’s so condescending that the other person will feel belittled—you’re better off avoiding it altogether. You could share your thoughts or experiences without making it sound like a lesson, as this makes the conversation feel more like a two-way street.
“You Probably Haven’t Heard Of It”
The saying, “You probably haven’t heard of it,” comes across as boasting about knowing something obscure, giving people the impression that you think you’re smarter than them—or that they’re stupid! It’s not fair at all so you should simply mention what the thing is. Then, wait and see if they’re familiar with it because doing so stops you from assuming anything.
“I’m Well-Versed In…”
Telling someone “I’m well-versed in…” is a way of showing off your expertise that only ever sounds boastful, although it’s great to know your stuff. Other people might feel like you’re trying to put yourself above them & a better way is to let your knowledge come out naturally. That way, people will notice your expertise without feeling like you’re rubbing it in, which puts everyone at ease.
“When I Was In [Insert Place]”
Of course, sharing stories from your travels is interesting but constantly saying “When I was in…” is a way of name-dropping that makes it sound like you’re trying to impress everyone. Say it if it’s relevant but be careful not to overdo it—otherwise, people feel like you’re flaunting your experiences. Is that really the impression that you want them to have of you?
“I’m Friends With [Important Person]”
Likewise, mentioning that you’re friends with someone important can seem like you’re trying to boost your own status. It doesn’t matter whether you really know them or not because bringing it up when it’s not relevant is just a form of bragging. Let your relationships speak for themselves without pointing them out so that each conversation feels more genuine.
“I Only Use Organic Products”
It’s great that you care about the environment yet saying, “I only use organic products” might make it seem like you’re judging others who don’t. The word “only” comes across as though you think your choices are better than everyone else’s—instead, just mention that you prefer organic products without the exclusivity. In doing so, you’ll share your preferences without making others feel bad about theirs.
“It’s a Bit Hard to Explain”
When you say “It’s a bit hard to explain,” it sounds like you think the other person won’t get it, which comes across dismissive or even a bit condescending. Don’t shut down the conversation but, rather, simplify it without saying how complicated it is. Better yet, ask if they want to hear more about it because it includes them & gives them a chance to engage.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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