Phrases that makes you sound less itelligent instantly, according to psychology
I could be wrong, but...
This phrase undermines your own authority and suggests uncertainty, making you seem less confident in your knowledge.
I'm not sure, but I think...
Similar to the previous phrase, this signals doubt in your own thoughts, which can make you seem less knowledgeable.
Um, like, you know...
Excessive filler words like "um," "like," and "you know" can make you appear less articulate and less confident.
I don't know anything about that.
While it's okay to admit when you're unsure, saying this without offering to learn more or engage in the topic can make you seem less curious or informed.
I'm just saying...
This phrase can come across as dismissive, signaling that what you're about to say isn’t worth taking seriously.
To be honest...
Phrases like this imply that you're not always honest, which can undermine your credibility and make you seem less trustworthy.
This might sound stupid, but...
Prefacing a statement with this phrase automatically diminishes its value and makes you seem less confident in your ideas.
Whatever.
Using dismissive language can make you appear uninterested or apathetic, which can be interpreted as a lack of intelligence or engagement.
I heard that...
Starting a statement with this phrase without providing a credible source can make you seem like you're spreading rumors or baseless information.
I can't even...
This incomplete phrase, often used in casual conversation, can make you seem overly emotional or incapable of articulating your thoughts clearly.
Literally" (when used incorrectly)
Misusing the word "literally" (e.g., "I'm literally dying of laughter") can make you seem less intelligent, as it shows a misunderstanding of the word's meaning.
It is what it is.
While this phrase is sometimes used to accept situations, it can also come off as lazy or resigned, suggesting a lack of critical thinking.
No offense, but...
This phrase often precedes a rude or insensitive comment, making you seem tactless or unintelligent in social situations.
I'm not a [expert], but...
This phrase can make you seem unqualified to speak on a subject, which may lead others to disregard your opinion.
"I think..."
Overusing this phrase before every statement can make you seem unsure or less confident in your opinions.