There’s nothing more infuriating than someone belittling you or being unnecessarily condescending.
While your initial response is likely to tell the person where to go — and admittedly, that would feel pretty good — it won’t actually solve anything, and instead you’ll just be stooping to their level. That being said, you don’t have to just stand there and listen to someone talking to you like you’re nothing more than dirt on their shoe. The next time someone talks down to you, try one of these responses to stand your ground and put them in their place.
1. “I’m sure you didn’t mean it that way, but I’d prefer a bit more respect.”
Sometimes you just need to point out what’s happening — and the fact that you recognise it straight away. You’re letting them know that while you’re sure they didn’t intend to sound condescending, their tone wasn’t exactly what you’d consider respectful. You’re not jumping down their throat, just calmly telling them that you’d appreciate a little more kindness. It’s a nice but firm way to remind them that respect goes both ways.
2. “I’m not sure where you’re coming from, but I’d appreciate it if you weren’t so condescending.”
This one’s perfect when you’re unsure why someone’s acting that way, but you can tell it’s not helpful. You’re not accusing them of anything, just pointing out that their tone is getting in the way of having a proper conversation. It moves the focus away from the attitude and back onto the discussion, helping you stay in control without sounding aggressive.
3. “That’s interesting, but I’m pretty confident in my opinions.”
When someone tries to dismiss your viewpoint, it’s important to stand firm without getting aggressive (even though you might have every right to be). A simple, calm “I’m confident in my opinions” lets them know that while you appreciate their thoughts, you’ve got your own perspective, and you’re not going to back down just because they’re being condescending. It’s all about confidence without confrontation.
4. “I’m happy to listen, but I’d prefer to do so as equals.”
If they’re talking to you like they’re the expert, and you’re just a bystander, this one puts you right back on equal footing. You’re open to hearing them out, but you’re not going to just sit there and let them talk down to you. By setting the expectation that you both deserve respect, you’re creating space for a more balanced conversation. If they can’t deal with that, you don’t have to talk to them.
5. “I’m not sure why you think that, but I disagree.”
This one is simple but gets the point across. No need to get defensive — you’re just calmly letting them know that you don’t agree with their take. You’re not being rude, but you do want to make it clear that their condescending attitude isn’t going to make you change your mind. You’ve got your own perspective, and you’re sticking with it.
6. “That’s definitely not true — here’s why.”
If someone’s spouting nonsense or misinformed opinions in a condescending way, this one calls it out while also giving your side. You’re not getting worked up about it, but you’re setting the record straight with a bit of explanation. It’s an invitation to a more thoughtful conversation without getting into a heated argument.
7. “Thanks for your feedback, but I’m good with my decision.”
If someone’s trying to make you second-guess yourself or belittle your choices, this keeps it polite but assertive. You acknowledge that they’ve shared their thoughts, but you’re sticking with your decision. No need to get into a long debate — you know what’s right for you, and that’s enough.
8. “I’m not looking for advice right now, but thanks for the offer.”
Sometimes, people offer unsolicited advice like they know what’s best for you. This response politely shuts that down while still keeping things civil. You’re letting them know that you’re capable of making your own decisions, and you don’t need their input, thank you very much. If they have any sense, they’ll let it go rather than continuing to try to change your opinions.
9. “I can handle this, but thank you for your concern.”
When someone implies that you can’t handle something, this one lets them know that you’ve got it covered. You appreciate the concern, but you’re fully capable. It’s a confident, calm response that shuts down any attempts to make you feel less than competent. You might not even understand why they assumed you needed help in the first place, but either way, you’re making it clear that you don’t.
10. “I don’t think we’re seeing eye to eye on this, but that’s okay.”
Disagreements happen, but there’s no need to let them turn into a fight. This one acknowledges that you’re not on the same page, but it shows maturity by accepting that differing opinions are natural. It keeps the conversation respectful and moves away from the condescending tone they’re using. There’s no sense in continuing the conversation and going round and round in circles, that’s for sure.
11. “I understand your point, but I’m going to do things my way.”
Source: Unsplash This is a great way to stay firm in your decision while showing that you understand where they’re coming from. You’re not dismissing their opinion, but you’re also not backing down from your own. It invites respect and keeps things civil, while also letting them know that their condescension won’t change your mind.
12. “I’m not sure why you think that, but feel free to explain why you think that.”
Source: Unsplash This one subtly calls out their assumption without being aggressive. It puts the ball in their court, giving them a chance to explain themselves — which, if they’re being condescending, might leave them scrambling a bit. It’s a more laid-back way to challenge them and keep the conversation productive. Of course, you could be making a rod for your own back here if they think that you asking them to “explain” is an invitation to be even more condescending…
13. “I’m confident in my ability to handle it, thanks for your input.”
Source: Unsplash When someone acts like you’re incapable of handling something, this response is perfect. You’re acknowledging their input but making it clear that you’ve got everything under control. It’s a calm and collected way to shut down their condescension without getting defensive. This really should be the end of the conversation if they know what’s good for them and actually respect you.
14. “Thanks for your opinion, but we clearly have different approaches here.”
Source: Unsplash This is a great one when someone’s pushing their perspective in a condescending way. It acknowledges their view while making it clear that you’re not going to adopt their approach. You’re keeping it respectful, but also setting the boundary that your way is fine, too.
15. “I prefer to handle this myself, but thanks for the suggestion.”
Source: Unsplash When someone offers help in a patronising way, this one shuts it down politely. You’re not dismissing them entirely, but you’re making it clear that you’ve got it covered. It’s a firm but respectful way to maintain control without letting their attitude make you feel small.
