Some people want to appear more intelligent in work or social settings, and use certain words or phrases to support this perception. Many of these expressions are borrowed from corporate jargon or academic language, and ironically come off as pretentious rather than insightful. By dissecting these common phrases, we can understand how language is sometimes used to mask a lack of substance. Let’s look at some of these phrases that people use to try to seem smarter than they really are.
In My Humble Opinion
When people say “in my humble opinion,” they often try to appear modest while asserting their viewpoint. The phrase can come across as insincere, especially if the opinion expressed is anything but humble. This expression is frequently used to preface a bold or controversial statement.
At the End of the Day
“At the end of the day” is a phrase people use to summarize their point, often without adding any real substance. It can be a filler that delays the actual conclusion. Listeners might find it redundant or a way to sound profound without providing concrete insights.
Theoretically Speaking
When someone says “theoretically speaking,” they aim to introduce an abstract or hypothetical idea. This phrase can give the impression of intellectual depth. However, it often masks a lack of practical knowledge or real-world application.
With All Due Respect
“With all due respect” is typically used before criticizing someone, which can come off as patronizing. The phrase tries to soften the blow of the following critique. Listeners may perceive it as a thinly veiled attempt to seem polite while delivering a harsh comment.
To Be Perfectly Honest
This phrase suggests that the speaker is about to reveal a candid truth. “To be perfectly honest” can imply that previous statements were less than honest. It often prefaces opinions or statements that are blunt and potentially offensive.
Needless to Say
“Needless to say” is used to introduce something that the speaker believes is obvious. This phrase can be redundant and may come off as condescending. It is often used to emphasize a point unnecessarily.
Per Se
When people use “per se,” they are trying to sound precise or sophisticated. The Latin phrase means “by itself” and is often misused in English. It can make simple statements appear more complex than they are.
It Is What It Is
“It is what it is” is a phrase that conveys resignation and acceptance of a situation. While it can sound philosophical, it often adds little to the conversation. It may be used to avoid deeper discussion or analysis.
For What It’s Worth
“For what it’s worth” is typically used to present an opinion that the speaker believes might be valuable. This phrase can come across as self-deprecating or unsure. It often precedes statements that may be seen as unsolicited advice.
Suffice It to Say
“Suffice it to say” is used to summarize a point without going into detail. The phrase can sound formal and intellectual. However, it may leave listeners wanting more information or feeling the speaker is avoiding specifics.
Ergo
“Ergo,” the Latin word for “therefore,” is often used to sound scholarly. It is commonly inserted to give a conclusion an air of sophistication. This word can make statements seem unnecessarily complex and pretentious.
Touch Base
“Touch base” is business jargon used to suggest a brief communication or update. While it sounds professional, it can be vague and overused. This phrase is often employed to appear more in control and organized than one might actually be.
In the Grand Scheme of Things
This phrase is used to provide perspective by considering the bigger picture. “In the grand scheme of things” can make minor issues seem less significant. However, it may also be perceived as dismissive of immediate concerns.
Let’s Circle Back
“Let’s circle back” is another piece of corporate jargon suggesting a future discussion. It can imply that the speaker is busy and organized. Overuse of this phrase can come across as evasive and non-committal.
At This Juncture
“At this juncture” is a formal way to say “at this point in time.” The phrase can make statements sound more significant. It is often used in professional settings to add gravity to otherwise straightforward points.
It Goes Without Saying
“It goes without saying” introduces an idea that the speaker believes is obvious. This phrase can be redundant and sometimes condescending. It is used to preface statements that the speaker thinks should be universally accepted.
If You Will
“If you will” is used to soften a statement or make it sound more tentative. The phrase can make the speaker seem considerate of differing opinions. However, it often adds little value and can be seen as filler.
To Be Fair
“To be fair” is a phrase used to present a balanced view or justify a statement. It aims to show impartiality and objectivity. However, it can sometimes come off as a preemptive defense against criticism.
With That Being Said
“With that being said,” is a transition phrase used to introduce a contrasting point. It helps to signal a change in direction. Despite its usefulness, it can be overused and perceived as a way to avoid committing to a single stance.
By and Large
“By and large” is used to generalize or summarize a point. The phrase can give the impression of thorough understanding. However, it may also appear as a way to gloss over exceptions and nuances.
If You Think About It
“If you think about it,” encourages the listener to consider a point more deeply. This phrase can sound persuasive and thoughtful. Nonetheless, it might come off as patronizing if the point being made is already clear.
In the Final Analysis
“In the final analysis” is used to present a conclusive summary. The phrase aims to add weight to the speaker’s final point. However, it can be seen as overly dramatic and unnecessary.
At the Risk of Sounding Redundant
This phrase is used to acknowledge that the speaker may be repeating themselves. “At the risk of sounding redundant” aims to pre-empt criticism for repetition. It can add emphasis but may also highlight a lack of new information.
