No one’s saying you need to talk like an old-timey professor, of course — unless you are one, which is totally fair! This is about ditching those filler phrases and sloppy word choices that make you sound unsure, juvenile, or just plain unpolished. You want to level-up for your communication skills, and strong language makes your ideas land with more impact, whether you’re at a job interview, in a debate, or simply want people to truly listen when you speak. With that in mind, here are a few phrases and conversational habits to leave behind.
1. “Like” as a verbal tic
Sprinkling “like” into every sentence is the verbal equivalent of twirling your hair nervously. It makes you sound like an airhead, even if you’re not! Try pausing instead. It feels awkward at first, but gives your brain time to catch up, and makes your speech seem more thoughtful.
2. “Just” to downplay your own assertions
“I’m just emailing to see…” or “I just had an idea…” This undermines your authority before you even get started! Ditch the “just,” state your request or idea directly. Confidence in your right to speak makes other people more likely to take you seriously, Psychology Today explains.
3. Ending sentences with a questioning tone
Upspeak is that annoying habit of making statements sound like questions? It makes you seem unsure of your own words, even if you know what you’re talking about. While this is natural for a lot of people, you can train yourself out of it. Instead, practice a firm, slightly downward intonation at the end of statements. Sounds more authoritative, even if it feels unnatural initially.
4. Overusing weak qualifiers like “kinda” or “sorta”
These make you sound wishy-washy. Instead of “It’s kinda interesting”, be specific: “It’s intriguing because [insert reason here].” Stronger adjectives say the same thing without the hesitation. If you do feel unsure, it’s okay to say, “I need to think about that more.” That’s still better than sounding unintelligent.
5. “Honestly…” or “To be honest…” at the start of sentences
Why does this need stating? It implies that normally, you might be less than truthful, which isn’t a great vibe! Lose this phrase altogether, and just get straight to the point of what you’re trying to say. Clarity and directness build trust more than emphasizing your honesty.
6. Using text speak in verbal conversation
“OMG,” “LOL,” and the rest are fine for texting friends, NOT for professional settings (or most adult conversation). It makes you seem lazy and diminishes otherwise good ideas. Learn to express your excitement or amusement in full words – it has a way bigger impact!
7. Vague generalizations that lack meaningful specifics
Don’t say “things” or “stuff”! Instead of “They need to change a lot of things around here,” get precise: “To increase efficiency, I suggest we change X, Y, and Z processes.” This shows you’ve done more than idly complain — you’ve considered potential solutions.
8. Clichés instead of crafting original descriptions
Saying someone’s “busy as a bee” or “out like a light” is boring! Those worn-out phrases lose their meaning. Even a simple, but specific observation like “She’s always juggling three things at once” is more vivid and engaging. Creates a stronger impression in the listener’s mind!
9. Excessive slang that dates you or groups you into a specific niche
Some slang is fun, but if overused, it limits you. “That idea’s fire!” at work? Cringey. Among friends, fine! Knowing when to adjust your language is key. This also applies to tech jargon or ‘inside baseball’ terms; outsiders won’t get it, making you seem less capable of explaining complex ideas clearly.
10. Complaining as your default conversation mode
Negativity is draining, Headspace points out. Yes, venting is sometimes needed. But if that’s all you do, people tune out. Balance it: “Traffic was insane, but that podcast made the commute bearable.” Shows you handle annoyances without letting them consume you, a sign of maturity.
11. “Whatever” — it’s the verbal equivalent of an eye roll
Dismissiveness shuts down conversation. Even if you disagree, find a more articulate way to express it: “I see your point, but have you considered [alternat perspective]?” Or, “I need a minute to process that.” Keeps the dialogue open, makes you seem thoughtful, not bratty.
12. “I think” or “I feel” to soften strong statements
Own your opinions! Instead of “I think we should try the new system,” just say “Let’s try the new system.” Less hedging makes you sound more decisive. Of course, this assumes you’ve thought it through, not just blurting out random notions!
13. Reacting with “That’s so random!” all the time
This teenspeak makes you sound, well, juvenile. Learn to articulate what’s surprising or odd about something, even if it’s just “I wasn’t expecting that!”. Shows you’re engaged and paying attention, but in a way that adds to the conversation.
14. Misusing trendy pop-psychology terms
Casually calling someone a “narcissist” or claiming everything is “toxic” is a no-go. Not only often inaccurate, it minimizes true mental health issues. Stick to descriptive language: “Their behavior seems self-centered.” This has the same impact without the need for armchair diagnoses.
15. Not knowing how to pronounce words correctly
Unsure? LOOK IT UP! Mispronouncing words makes you seem uneducated, even if you’re brilliant. Especially important for names (shows respect!) and any jargon specific to your field. Yes, language evolves, but some basics are essential to credibility.
16. Not having a few “power words” in your vocabulary
Instead of “good,” try “astute” or “advantageous.” Instead of “bad” try “ineffective” or “detrimental.” A stronger vocabulary shows intelligence and precision. Don’t overdo it with thesaurus abuse, obviously, because you’ll end up looking pretty silly. However, a few well-placed meatier words elevate your speech immensely!
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