We’ve all crossed paths with a classic know-it-all.
You know exactly the type: they have an unsolicited opinion for everything, interrupt mid-sentence to correct you, and act like Google with a superiority complex. Whether it’s at work, in your family, or just someone who pops up in the group chat too often, their constant one-upping can be exhausting. You don’t always want to start a fight, but you also don’t want to keep smiling through the eye rolls. Here are some things to say to shut it down without blowing things up — just enough edge to get your point across without turning into the know-it-all yourself.
1. “You might be right.”
This one’s perfect when you just don’t have the energy to engage. It’s polite, non-committal, and lets them feel like they’ve won, while you mentally move on to something more interesting. They’ll probably keep talking, but you’re no longer feeding it. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is something that sounds agreeable but actually means, “I’m so done here.”
2. “That’s one way to look at it.”
This reminds them that their opinion isn’t the only one, without calling them out directly. It’s a nice little reality check wrapped in diplomacy. It’s useful when they’re clearly wrong, but you’re not in the mood to start a debate. You acknowledge them without validating their need to be the final authority.
3. “I hadn’t thought about it that way.”
Say it with a hint of curiosity and just enough vagueness. You’re not saying they’re right—you’re just saying… sure, okay, noted. Moving on now. This keeps things civil without giving them the satisfaction of an actual win. You’re showing openness without letting them dominate the conversation.
4. “I’ll look into that.”
Whether they’ve just corrected your pronunciation or fact-checked your lunch order, this is a quick way to shut it down. You’re not arguing; you’re just choosing to do your own homework. Bonus: it implies you don’t totally believe them, which might drive them a little bit nuts. Quiet confidence is the best kind of pushback.
5. “Interesting, I’ve seen it differently.”
This one’s polite but firm. You’re not backing down, and you’re not asking for a debate either. You’re just letting them know they’re not the ultimate source of truth. It’s great for when they start talking over you like you’re misinformed and just need their enlightenment. A little boundary-setting, zero drama.
6. “Let’s agree to disagree on that one.”
Sometimes the only way out is a graceful exit. This line draws the line without making it personal, and lets you escape the conversational trap they’re trying to set. If they push back, just smile and repeat it. No need to explain further. You’ve closed the door and tossed the key over your shoulder.
7. “I think we’ve covered this, haven’t we?”
Use this when they’re repeating themselves like a TED Talk on loop. It’s firm but casual—a way to nudge the conversation forward without sounding too aggressive. If they keep going, you can always follow it up with, “Anyway…” and change the subject entirely. Sometimes you’ve got to redirect the energy instead of absorbing it.
8. “You clearly know a lot about this.”
Said with just the right tone, this can go either way: sincere or slightly sarcastic. That’s up to you and how over it you are. It gives them what they want (acknowledgment) but also signals you’re tapping out of the debate. They get their spotlight moment, and you get your peace.
9. “I think we’re coming from different angles.”
This response keeps things neutral, but still distances you from their I’m-always-right energy. It’s calm, it’s thoughtful, and it doesn’t feed the back-and-forth loop they’re trying to start. It’s basically a soft way of saying, “You’re not wrong — but you’re also not right for me.” Perfect for when you need to protect your sanity in mixed company.
10. “You always have an answer for everything, huh?”
This one’s playful but pointed. You’re not calling them out directly, just shining a little light on their pattern with a smirk and a raised eyebrow. Sometimes that light touch of humour is all it takes to interrupt the know-it-all performance without turning it into a fight. Bonus points if you can laugh while saying it.
11. “I’ll stick with what works for me, but thanks.”
When they insist you’re doing it wrong, whether it’s how you cook rice or organise your calendar, this lets you draw a line without getting defensive. You’re not debating, you’re not proving a point—you’re just opting out. And honestly, that kind of quiet self-assurance is more effective than any argument.
12. “I can tell you’re passionate about this.”
Which is a nice way of saying, “Wow, you’re really going hard about this random topic.” It flatters them while still keeping some healthy distance. If they take the bait and keep going, you can use that as your out. “I’ll let you keep nerding out on that—I need to grab a drink.” Done and dusted.
13. “You don’t have to convince me.”
Perfect for when they’re trying to hammer home their point even after you’ve made it clear you’re not debating. It’s a laid-back stop sign wrapped in calm energy. You’re letting them know their opinion has been received, but the conversation doesn’t need to keep going. Some people just need help finding the off switch.
14. “You’re probably right—I’m okay either way.”
This is a personal favourite for when you’re too tired to spar. It’s agreeable enough to end the conversation, but indifferent enough to let them know you’re not actually that invested. They get to feel smart, and you get to move on without a headache. A win-win if you’re playing the long game in keeping the peace.
15. “You’re welcome to see it that way.”
This one’s a bit cheeky and great for those moments when they’re being a little too confident about something subjective. You’re not arguing; you’re just calmly disagreeing and moving on. It’s especially useful if you’re dealing with someone who struggles to handle opposing views. You don’t have to make them agree with you. You just have to stop pretending they speak for everyone.
16. “Let’s change the subject before we both fall asleep.”
Straightforward, a little snarky, and just bold enough to jolt the convo back to life. Use this when they’ve gone full lecture mode, and you can feel your soul leaving your body. It’s funny without being mean, and it helps you take back control of the moment without turning it into a thing. Sometimes the best way to deal with a know-it-all is to make it clear you’d rather talk about literally anything else.
