Your words shape how you’re perceived. While having a vast vocabulary is impressive, it’s sometimes the seemingly harmless, everyday phrases that subtly undermine your sophistication. Banishing these “filler” words and overused expressions will not only make your speech more elegant, it’ll also make you a more mindful communicator. If you’re ready to upgrade your vocab, let’s drop these altogether.
1. “Like,” used as a filler word (ex: “It was, like, super awkward.”)
“Like” is the poster child of verbal junk food. Peppering every sentence with it makes you sound unsure, unfocused, and less articulate. Instead of “like,” try brief pauses or more precise descriptors: “It was incredibly awkward,” or “It was surprisingly awkward.”
2. “Basically,” especially at the start of sentences.
“Basically” is often used as a lead-in when you’re simplifying an idea or summarizing a situation. But overusing it makes you sound like you’re talking down to your listener. Skip the “basically” and just get to the point.
3. “Honestly…” or “To be honest…”
Ironically, constantly prefacing statements with these phrases makes your other statements seem less credible. It hints at a subconscious expectation that you aren’t always truthful. Let your words speak for themselves, they’ll sound far more sincere.
4. “Sorry, but…”
Over-apologizing, especially when offering opinions or disagreeing, diminishes your voice. Learn to express your viewpoints without the self-deprecating cushion. Be firm and direct: “Actually, I see it differently…” demonstrates self-confidence.
5. “I could be wrong, but…” or “This is just my opinion, but…”
This excessive hedging makes you come across as unsure. Everyone is entitled to have opinions, thoughts, and expertise. State them with conviction! You can always be open to new information without broadcasting your fear of being wrong.
6. “I feel like…” when describing a thought or situation.
Sure, feelings are important. But leading with “I feel like…” weakens your statements. Instead of “I feel like that’s a bad idea,” try “The data suggests this approach might be risky…” Describing the rationale behind your opinion carries more weight.
7. “You guys” to address groups of mixed gender
While casual and friendly, “you guys” isn’t always inclusive. Opt for gender-neutral alternatives like “everyone,” “folks,” or “team” to ensure no one feels excluded. Small word swaps, big impact on creating a welcoming environment.
8. “I’m not going to lie…”
This phrase does the opposite of its intent. It implies that deception is so ingrained in you, it takes conscious effort to be truthful. If you’re about to share something surprising or controversial, simply state it without the unnecessary preface.
9. “That’s awesome!” or “That sucks!” as generic responses.
Overusing these catch-all reactions reduces thoughtful exchanges to empty platitudes. Show genuine interest by responding with more specific and engaged expressions: “That’s fantastic! Can you tell me more?” or “That’s disappointing, I know you were hoping for a different outcome”.
10. “I can’t even…” when something overwhelms you.
This signals a lack of ability to process experiences or articulate emotions. Instead of verbalizing your speechlessness, take a pause and try to pinpoint the exact feeling: “I’m truly shocked” or “This is so frustrating, I need a moment to gather my thoughts.”
11. Upspeak, or ending statements on a rising pitch as if they’re questions.
While sometimes unintentional, upspeak undermines confidence and makes you sound like you’re constantly seeking confirmation rather than stating facts or opinions. Practice a strong declarative tone – your statements will carry more weight.
12. “Literally,” used to exaggerate when something isn’t actually literal.
This word is frequently misused to add dramatic emphasis. Saying you “literally died laughing” diminishes the actual meaning of “literally”. It weakens your speech and makes your exaggerations less impactful.
13. “No offense, but…”
If you’re instinctively bracing your listener for an insult, you probably already know what you’re about to say IS offensive. Consider rephrasing your statement to be more respectful or dropping it altogether if it’s unnecessarily hurtful.
14. “I’m the worst!” for minor mistakes or self-deprecating humor.
Exaggerating your failures does not make you funny or endearing. Be kind to yourself! Everyone messes up, and phrases like this chip away at genuine self-esteem. Instead, try “Oops, silly mistake,” or laugh off minor blunders without the self-flagellation.
15. “Just sayin’…” to dismiss another person’s opinion.
This casual phrase often follows a deliberately provocative statement, intended to shut down further discussion or deflect accountability. It’s a dismissive way to avoid engaging with a different perspective. Instead, foster healthy dialogue by acknowledging another person’s viewpoint respectfully, even if you disagree.
16. “Whatever!” as an all-purpose expression of disinterest or annoyance.
Using “whatever” shows a lack of investment in a conversation or signals passive-aggressiveness. It’s dismissive and unhelpful in communication. Instead of shutting down engagement, explain your feelings clearly or end the conversation gracefully: “I’m not interested in discussing this further right now,” or “This isn’t productive, let’s revisit this later.”
