Sometimes, people say and do things that rub us the wrong way.
In response, you can either give them a piece of your mind, stooping to their level (or even lower), or you can handle the situation with maturity and grace. Sadly, a lot of people choose the first option, and it comes through loud and clear in everything they say. Here are some phrases that lack sophistication and class. It’s tough to take the high road sometimes, but it’s ultimately worth it.
1. “Well, I wasn’t invited anyway…”
Nothing shows a lack of grace quite like pretending you didn’t want to go to something you weren’t asked to. Making up excuses about how you were too busy that day anyway. Throwing in little digs about how you’ve heard similar events were boring. Then posting passive-aggressive social media updates about ‘real friends’ on the day. The desperate attempt to save face just makes everything more awkward.
2. “Must be nice to have money…”
This comes out when someone shows off their new car, talks about their holiday, or mentions home improvements. It’s that bitter little comment that tries to make people feel guilty for their success or choices. You can hear the jealousy dripping from every word. The phrase usually comes with an eye roll and some muttering about how some people have it easy.
3. “Nobody told me…”
They refuse to take responsibility for missing information that was clearly shared. Acting like everyone else had some secret meeting without them. Making a big scene about being left out of the loop when they just didn’t pay attention. Then dramatically scrolling through their phone to prove they never got the message that’s sitting right there in the group chat.
4. “I’m just saying what everyone’s thinking…”
They drop harsh comments then hide behind this excuse like it makes their rudeness okay. Somehow they’ve appointed themselves spokesperson for the group’s supposed secret thoughts. They love creating awkward moments then acting surprised when people get upset. The room always goes quiet after they’ve ‘just said’ what absolutely nobody was thinking.
5. “No offence but…”
Everything before that ‘but’ becomes completely meaningless as they launch into something deliberately offensive. They think this magical phrase gives them permission to be cruel. Using it as a shield to say whatever mean thought pops into their head. The phrase has never once been followed by something that wasn’t meant to cause hurt.
6. “I guess that’s just how you do things…”
The ultimate passive-aggressive way of saying they think someone’s way is wrong. Adding that little judgmental head tilt for extra effect. Making it clear they’d never do things that way themselves. Their tone suggests they’re being understanding while their words drip with disapproval.
7. “Who paid for that?”
They try to figure out someone’s financial situation by asking nosy questions. Making pointed comments about people’s purchases or lifestyle choices. Trying to work out if someone can ‘really’ afford something new. Their curiosity always comes wrapped in judgment about how other people spend their money.
8. “You’ve lost/gained weight…”
Commenting on people’s bodies like it’s perfectly fine small talk. Making unsolicited observations about someone’s appearance changes. Acting like they’re doing someone a favour by pointing out these changes. The statement usually comes with an up-and-down look that makes everyone uncomfortable.
9. “I thought you of all people…”
Using this phrase to shame someone for not meeting their random expectations. Acting disappointed when someone makes choices they don’t agree with. Making it clear they’ve been judging and categorising people all along. Their surprise reveals more about their prejudices than anything else.
10. “Must be nice to have that kind of time…”
Taking digs at how other people choose to spend their free time. Making snippy comments about people’s hobbies or interests. Suggesting that anyone who has time for things they don’t approve of must be slacking somewhere else. Their bitterness about people’s time management reveals their own frustrations.
11. “Not to be dramatic but…”
Always followed by the most dramatic possible take on a situation. Making mountains out of molehills while pretending to be level-headed. Using this phrase as permission to completely overreact to minor things. The drama that follows makes everyone wish they’d just own their tendency for theatrics.
12. “You’ll understand when you’re older…”
Dismissing someone’s thoughts or feelings based on their age. Acting like wisdom only comes with years rather than experience. Using their age as a trump card in discussions they’re losing. The patronising tone makes everyone involved feel like they’re stuck in a bad family sitcom.
13. “I cleaned up since you obviously weren’t going to…”
Turning helpful actions into weapons of guilt. Making a show of doing tasks nobody asked them to do. Using basic courtesy as ammunition for later complaints. Their ‘favour’ comes with a side of martyrdom that ruins any actual helpfulness.
14. “Don’t take this personally…”
Preparing to say something that’s clearly meant to be taken personally. Using this phrase as a free pass to be deliberately hurtful. Making pointed comments while pretending they’re just being objective. The warning itself shows they know exactly how personal their next statement will be.
15. “I’m just brutally honest…”
Using honesty as an excuse for being unnecessarily cruel. Confusing meanness with straightforwardness. Taking pride in lacking basic tact and consideration. Their ‘brutal honesty’ somehow only comes out when it can hurt someone, never when it might help.
