I’ve always believed that the way we speak is like a signature—it says so much about who we are without needing a fancy pen or a dotted line.
But let’s be honest, we’ve all been guilty of cluttering our conversations with phrases that don’t do us any favors.
Take “literally,” for instance. How many times have you heard someone say they’re “literally dying” when they’re just a little embarrassed? These linguistic crutches can creep into our vocabulary so subtly that we barely notice them, but others do.
The truth is, sounding intelligent doesn’t require dropping obscure words or quoting philosophy at brunch. You just need to remove the unnecessary, letting your words speak with clarity and intention.
So, let’s talk about the eight phrases that might be holding you back—and why you’re better off leaving them behind.
1) “Literally”
The English language is awash with hyperbole, and we often use words without fully considering their meaning.
One prime culprit is the word “literally”.
It’s become a crutch word that’s thrown into sentences to add emphasis, but more often than not, it’s used incorrectly. Literally means something that is actually true, and when it’s used to exaggerate, it can make you sound less intelligent.
Consider this: instead of saying “I was literally dying of embarrassment”, you could say “I was immensely embarrassed”.
It’s a small change, but it’s one that can make a big difference in how others perceive your intelligence.
Precision in language is a sign of intellectual rigor.
2) “You know what I mean?”
Here’s a phrase that I’ve been guilty of using quite often – “You know what I mean?”
While it can seem harmless, it’s a phrase that can undermine our credibility and intelligence.
Let me share an example. During a meeting at work, I was presenting an idea to my team and found myself ending my sentences with “you know what I mean?” It was almost as if I was seeking validation or confirmation.
Afterwards, a colleague pointed out that this habit made me come across as unsure, even though I was the expert on the matter being discussed.
This phrase can imply that we’re not confident in our communication skills and need constant reassurance that we’re being understood. It’s better to present your ideas clearly and confidently, and then ask for feedback or thoughts afterwards.
From that day onwards, “you know what I mean?” has been given the boot from my vocabulary. And trust me, it makes a difference.
3) “I think”
The phrase “I think” might seem harmless, but it can subtly undermine your authority and credibility.
When you preface your statements with “I think”, it can give the impression that you’re not entirely confident in what you’re saying. It sounds like you’re expressing an opinion, rather than stating a fact.
In contrast, removing “I think” from your sentences can make your statements sound more assertive and confident. For example, instead of saying “I think this is the best solution,” say “This is the best solution.”
4) “Just”
This seemingly harmless little word can be a big problem. ”
Just” often minimizes the importance of what we’re saying, making us sound less confident and authoritative.
For example, saying “I just think that…” or “I’m just wondering if…” tends to diminish the value of our thoughts or questions.
Instead, get straight to the point. “I believe that…” or “What if we try…” are much more direct and confident.
Eliminating “just” from your vocabulary can make a significant difference in how people perceive your intelligence and authority. So next time you’re about to use it, think twice.
Your words may be more powerful without it.
5) “I don’t know”
We’ve all been there. Stuck in a conversation, asked a question, and the only response we can muster is a shrug and a sheepish “I don’t know”.
While it’s completely okay not to have all the answers, resorting to “I don’t know” can sometimes come off as dismissive or uninterested.
It’s alright to admit when we don’t have the answer, but how about turning it into a learning opportunity instead? Next time you’re tempted to say “I don’t know”, try responding with something like “I’m not sure, let me find out for you” or “That’s a good question. I’d love to look into that.”
This approach shows your willingness to learn and grow, traits that are often associated with intelligence. It turns a moment of uncertainty into a moment of potential growth.
6) “I’m no expert, but…”
This is a phrase that I used to lean on quite heavily. It seemed like a humble way to offer my thoughts or ideas – a preface that acknowledged my limitations.
However, I soon realized that it wasn’t doing me any favors. In fact, it was doing the opposite.
“I’m no expert, but…” can set you up to be dismissed before you’ve even had a chance to share your thoughts. It suggests that you don’t believe in your own knowledge or abilities, which can make it harder for others to believe in them too.
Instead, have confidence in the value of your perspectives and experiences. You might not be an expert, but your insights are still valuable.
So try replacing “I’m no expert, but…” with “In my experience…” or “From my perspective…”
Since making this change, I’ve noticed an uptick in how seriously people take my ideas – and that’s made all the difference.
7) “I guess”
The phrase “I guess” is another one of those verbal tics that can make you come across as unsure or indecisive.
Like “I think”, it’s a qualifier that weakens your statements and can make you sound less confident and intelligent than you really are.
Instead of saying “I guess we could try this strategy,” say “Let’s try this strategy.” It’s a small change, but it makes your statement more direct and assertive.
8) “Like”
This is perhaps one of the most overused words in casual conversation.
“Like” has become a placeholder, a way of punctuating sentences or buying time to think.
However, overusing “like” can make you sound less articulate and thoughtful than you actually are. It can be distracting for your listener and detract from the substance of what you’re saying.
Try to be mindful of when you’re using “like” as filler. It’s a habit that can be hard to break, but with some practice and awareness, you can start to eliminate it from your vocabulary.
Clear and concise communication is often the most intelligent sounding.
Final thoughts
You know, I used to think that sounding smart meant having the right words at the right time. But what I’ve learned is that it’s actually more about what you don’t say.
The phrases we lean on—whether it’s “I think” or “just”—aren’t just fillers. They’re little cracks in the confidence we’re trying to convey.
And when you strip them away, what’s left is a voice that’s clear, purposeful, and undeniably yours.
Mark Twain once said, “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” And honestly? He was onto something.
So, as you step into your next conversation, try giving those overused phrases a break. Trust your words, your ideas, and yourself.
Because when you do, people will notice—and they’ll listen.