There was a time when I thought peppering conversations with “literally” and “to be honest” made me sound more polished.
Like adding a splash of linguistic cologne before heading out into the world.
But then I started noticing: the more I overthought my words, the less confident I sounded. Funny how that works, right?
Turns out, it’s not the big, bold phrases that make us sound smart—it’s the subtle ones we avoid. The little fillers, the apologies, the overused expressions.
So, let’s unpack this together: 9 phrases you’ll want to ditch if you’re aiming for clarity, confidence, and just a little extra sparkle in the way you come across.
1) “Literally”
We’ve all been guilty of this one.
The word “literally” has been so overused and misused, it’s often thrown into sentences where it doesn’t belong.
In reality, “literally” means something is exactly as it is described. But many of us use it to add emphasis to a statement that is not literally true.
Consider this: “I was so embarrassed, I literally died.”
Of course, you didn’t actually die from embarrassment. So using “literally” in this context is not only incorrect but can also make you sound less intelligent.
Instead, try to use more accurate words to convey your emotions or replace “literally” with “really” or “truly”.
This will help you sound more articulate and intelligent. And keep in mind, if it’s not a factual statement, it’s not literal!
2) “I think”
This phrase is a common offender.
It’s a phrase I used to use all the time without realizing how it was impacting the way people perceived me.
“I think” can make your statements sound uncertain and like you’re second-guessing yourself. It’s as if you’re asking for approval for your thoughts.
For example, instead of saying, “I think this is a good idea for our campaign,” just assertively say, “This is a good idea for our campaign.”
It communicates confidence and knowledge.
Since I’ve stopped starting sentences with “I think,” I’ve noticed a significant change in how people respond to my ideas.
It’s made me sound more intelligent and confident in my assertions. So, give it a try and see the difference for yourself!
3) “To be honest”
This phrase is a bit of a paradox. Saying “to be honest” implies that what you’ve said before wasn’t completely truthful.
It’s a phrase we often use to preface a potentially uncomfortable or controversial statement.
Instead of relying on this phrase, just say what you mean. It’ll help you sound more direct, intelligent, and ironically, more honest!
4) “Like”
This could be a tough one to break, especially if you’ve grown up using “like” as a filler word.
“Like” often creeps into our dialogue to fill gaps while we think or to add emphasis. However, its overuse can make us sound unsure, and even immature.
Instead of saying, “I was, like, so surprised,” try, “I was very surprised.” It sounds more mature and intelligent.
Breaking the habit of using “like” can be challenging, but it’s worth it. You’ll come across as more confident and articulate when you do.
5) “I guess”
“I guess” is another phrase that undermines our credibility and makes us sound uncertain.
It’s as if we’re not entirely convinced about what we’re saying and thus, it can make us appear less intelligent.
Saying, “I guess we could try this strategy,” doesn’t inspire confidence. Instead, confidently stating, “We should try this strategy,” comes across as more assertive and informed.
So, next time you catch yourself saying “I guess”, pause and reconsider your choice of words. Choose phrases that reflect certainty and conviction instead.
6) “I’m just”
“I’m just” is a phrase that I’ve noticed a lot of us use when we’re trying to be modest or downplay our achievements.
But what we’re actually doing is undermining our own worth and intelligence.
For example, saying “I’m just a beginner” or “I’m just an intern” can make it seem like we’re not valuable or capable.
But the truth is, every role and every level of experience has its own importance and contribution.
Instead of minimizing your worth, embrace it. You’re not “just” anything – you’re someone who’s learning, growing and contributing in your own unique way.
The words you use not only influence how others perceive you, but also how you perceive yourself.
So, speak about yourself with kindness and confidence. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.
7) “Sorry, but…”
Here’s a phrase that I used to use far too often.
“Sorry, but…” is a phrase we tend to use when we’re disagreeing with someone or presenting an alternate viewpoint.
But in reality, it can make us sound apologetic for having our own opinions.
For instance, instead of saying, “Sorry, but I don’t agree with your point,” it’s far more assertive and respectful to simply state, “I respect your viewpoint, but I see things differently.”
Dropping the unnecessary apologies from our language has helped me feel more confident in my own thoughts and beliefs. And I believe it can do the same for you.
8) “Actually”
“Actually” is one of those words that can unintentionally come off as condescending or argumentative.
It can make it seem like you’re correcting someone, even when that’s not your intention.
Instead of saying, “Actually, I think you’re wrong,” try a softer approach such as, “I see where you’re coming from, but have you considered this perspective?”
By doing this, you’re inviting dialogue and exchange of ideas rather than shutting down the conversation.
It’s a subtle change that can drastically improve your communication skills and make you sound more intelligent and considerate.
9) “Whatever”
This is possibly one of the most dismissive phrases out there.
“Whatever” can come off as indifferent, uninterested, or even rude. It’s not the phrase of someone engaged in meaningful, intelligent conversation.
Instead, if you disagree or are uninterested in continuing a discussion, it’s more respectful to clearly communicate your thoughts.
Saying something like “Let’s agree to disagree” or “Let’s revisit this later” keeps the lines of communication open and shows respect for the other person’s viewpoint.
Intelligent communication requires respecting others and fostering meaningful conversations.
Food for thought
Language is tricky—it’s like fashion for your thoughts.
The right “fit” can make you feel confident and capable, while the wrong words? They’re like wearing heels that pinch halfway through the night. Unnecessary and kind of painful.
So here’s the thing: dropping those phrases makes space for authenticity.
Because sounding intelligent means choosing the words that let the real you shine through.
And when that happens? People will listen—not to the words themselves, but to the intention behind them. That’s where the magic is.
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