Sometimes the way we speak says more about us than we realize, and while yes, people shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, there are certain words and phrases can make you come across less intelligent than you actually are. Here are some to avoid, as well as some smarter alternatives that’ll have people seeing your brainpower in a whole new light.
1. “Like” used as filler
We all do this on autopilot sometimes! But, overusing “like” makes you sound unsure or like you can’t form complete, intelligent sentences. Try short pauses instead. They give you thinking space and make your words have more impact than when they’re peppered with meaningless “likes.”
2. “Just” and “I think” to soften your statement
“I just wanted to say…” or “I think maybe…” downplay your ideas. Be direct! “I’d like to suggest…” or “My opinion is…” because they show conviction. It doesn’t mean being arrogant, just owning your place at the table, Verywell Mind notes.
3. “Honestly” or “To be honest…”
Starting sentences like this makes people wonder why you usually aren’t honest! Instead of this preface, get to the point clearly, and let your sincerity speak for itself. People trust what you say without you needing to sell them on your honesty.
4. Upspeak, or ending sentences with a question mark even when they’re not questions?
This makes you sound unsure of yourself. Project confidence by using a slightly descending pitch at the end of statements. It’s subtle, but signals authority far better than that questioning tone. Sure, some people naturally have this intonation, but you can try to correct it if you recognize it in yourself.
5. Complicated words used out of context in an attempt to sound smart
Forcing big, obscure vocabulary words in where they don’t fit sounds unnatural. Clear, concise language is most impressive. Save the fancy vocabulary for situations where it genuinely adds precision to your point. Otherwise, you just look like a try-hard who shouldn’t be taken seriously.
6. Exaggerations like “always” or “never”
These make you seem less credible. Nuance is intelligent! “Rarely,” “frequently,” and “often” paint a more accurate picture, and show you’ve actually thought about the frequency of something happening. Of course, if you’re just talking to your friends at the bar, they might also sound a little out of place, so choose your audience wisely.
7. Overly formal language that sounds stiff
Trying to sound like a textbook isn’t relatable. Using contractions ( “can’t” instead of “cannot”), and phrasing things conversationally makes your intelligence more accessible and inviting to other people. It’s one thing to sound intelligent and entirely another to sound so stiff that you might as well be a robot.
8. “Guys” as a catch-all term for groups, especially mixed-gender groups
This casual phrase is outdated and minimizes women. Try “everyone,” “folks,” or “team” — they’re more inclusive, and show you’re mindful of language. Inclusivity and intelligence go hand-in-hand!
9. “Literally” used incorrectly
Hyperbole undermines your point. Save “literally” for situations where it’s true (you were literally starving). Exaggerating by saying you were “literally dying of embarrassment” lessens the power of the word when used accurately later.
10. “At the end of the day…”
This cliché is filler that adds zero value. Get to your main point without the windup! People respect succinctness. If you truly need a summarizing phrase, try “in short” or “the bottom line is…” Otherwise, just spit it out! People will respect you a whole lot more for it.
11. Vague, wishy-washy language, especially when expressing an opinion
Saying something is “interesting” tells us nothing. What about it is interesting? Be specific! “That’s a surprising perspective,” or “I appreciate how the data challenges conventional wisdom” are far more insightful.
12. Slang or overly casual phrases in a professional setting
Adapt your language to the environment. “That sucks!” works with friends venting, not in a project status meeting. Knowing when to adjust shows communication savvy. It’s not that you can’t speak casually, but that you choose your words purposefully.
13. Pop culture references that exclude certain people
Assuming everyone’s as obsessed with your favorite show/meme as you are is off-putting. If it’s essential to the point, briefly explain the reference so the people who are out of the loop aren’t left lost. Otherwise, universally understandable examples are best.
14. Interrupting or talking over people
Even if you have a brilliant point to make, this shows a serious lack of respect. Truly intelligent people know the value of listening. Let the other person finish, then offer your thoughtful counterpoint or addition to their idea. There’s nothing that important that you have to say that can’t wait 30 seconds.
15. Gossiping or talking crap about people behind their backs
Smart people focus on ideas, not tearing people down. If discussing someone’s work is necessary, frame it constructively. Trash-talking makes you seem small-minded, and makes people wonder what you say about them when they’re not around.
16. Pretending to know things you don’t
Everyone has knowledge gaps! Faking it destroys trust when the truth comes out. “I’m not familiar with that, could you tell me more?” shows curiosity and a desire to learn — that’s far more impressive than bluffing. As Psychology Today points out, it’s not just okay not to know everything, it’s important!
17. Dismissing other people’s opinions with phrases like “whatever” or eye-rolling
Even if you strongly disagree, do so respectfully. “I have a different perspective, here’s why…” opens a dialogue, while dismissive gestures shut it down. Intelligent debate is engaging, rude dismissiveness is a turn-off.
18. Bragging, whether about accomplishments, possessions, or connections
Confidence is attractive, arrogance isn’t. Truly smart people let their achievements speak for themselves. They help others shine, knowing that being part of a strong team makes their own successes even greater.
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