Are the people around you honest in your dealings? What if I told you that some oft-used phrases are just smokescreens hiding hypocrisy and honesty?

Get ready for an eye-opening journey as we uncover the most cunning phrases people use to hide their true intentions.

This would be a good idea!

1) I’ll definitely keep that in mind
We’re coming out of the gates strong with this one. “I’ll definitely keep that in mind” is a seemingly innocuous statement that implies acceptance and consideration.

However, do not rush to celebrate their apparent openness. Someone may use this phrase as a convenient escape hatch without genuinely trying to follow through.

After all, words are easy, but follow through takes a lot of effort.

I’ve heard this phrase from my former bosses and managers when I approached them with a well-thought-out proposal, some of my friends when I asked for their advice and support, and even from my ex when I shared my aspirations and dreams. Oh.

Let’s move on to another zinger.

2) I am here for you anytime
“I’m here for you anytime.” These little friendly and supportive words can mean a lot to us in times of trouble.

But what happens when you try to reach out to have a heart-to-heart conversation or ask for real help? Then they constantly make excuses, become unavailable, or show little interest in effectively supporting you.

And I’m not exaggerating here, this has happened to me on several occasions. That’s why, whenever I hear that phrase, I know what’s up, unfortunately.

If you feel unsure about relying on the person who made the offer, it is best to look for trusted friends, family members or professionals who can provide the support you need.

There’s another charged phrase that excites me just by hearing it.

3) I’m sorry you feel this way
“I’m sorry you feel that way” is a phrase frequently used in an attempt to express sympathy or remorse, but upon closer examination, it falls apart, and its true meaning is often frustrating.

If you have ever encountered this expression, I am sure you know its true meaning. This seemingly apologetic statement carries a subtle subtext that shifts blame onto you.

You are responsible for what happened or what you just said. Although friends and family may use this phrase, I have encountered it most often in a professional setting.

It’s basically lawyer talking because we’re guilty but we won’t admit it. Instead of honestly addressing your concerns or taking responsibility for their actions, they ignore your feelings and imply that the problem is only your perception, thus invalidating your concerns.

My favorite response is: “I think it’s important for us to have an open conversation about this. Can we discuss our different viewpoints and work to find common ground?”

4) I don’t want to impose, but…
This next phrase is the one you should look for. When someone starts a conversation with “I don’t want to impose, but…” he or she is trying to soften the impact of the next statement.

Here are some difficult examples:

“I don’t want to impose, but I think it would be better if you stopped seeing your friends so often.”
“I don’t want to impose on you, but can you lend me some money?”
“I don’t want to impose, but do you think you could cover my shift this weekend?”
“I don’t want to impose, but I heard that you are skilled at graphic design.

Can you create a logo for my new business?”
“I don’t want to impose on you, but I need to borrow your car for the weekend.”
You get the point. show yourself!

When I can’t or don’t want to do the thing they’re skating for, I like to respond with:

“Even though I can’t help you at this time, have you tried asking [name of another person or source] who can help you?”

5) I appreciate your input

This is another phrase that commonly appears in professional settings. This may come from your boss, or worse, your co-worker.

“I appreciate your input” translates to “Thanks, but no thanks.” It is used to hide disagreement, reject alternative viewpoints, or maintain the status quo while avoiding real engagement or consideration.

However, the phrase is not limited to the office environment. If you hear your friend or family member using it, it means that they will continue to make decisions that completely ignore your advice.

When you encounter the statement “I appreciate your contribution” in a context where you suspect it may be used to dismiss or belittle your contribution, it is important to respond in a way that affirms your point of view and encourages genuine engagement.

Here’s how I would respond:

• “Thank you for valuing my input. I’d love to hear more about how my thoughts align or differ from your own on this topic.
• “I’m glad my opinion is valued. Can we discuss how we can incorporate these ideas into the project moving forward?”
• “I appreciate that you acknowledge my thoughts. Let me explain further why I think this approach can be useful based on…”
• “I respect your judgment, and I’m curious to hear what others think as well. How do you all feel about this idea? (If you’d like to stir the pot and put the others on the spot.)

6) Let’s agree to disagree
“Let’s agree to disagree” can be a healthy way to deal with disagreements, but it can also be used to dismiss your point of view without real consideration.

I don’t particularly like this phrase, I’ve seen it online or heard it in person many times.

I believe this limits open communication and is used as a way to hide the issue and avoid discussing it further. Basically, the phrase is used to shut down a conversation and maintain a stalemate.

When someone says, “Let’s agree to disagree,” you should think about the context and intentions behind the statement. Sometimes the person using it is coming from a real place, and it’s not worth pursuing your point indefinitely. There will be no winners in this.

However, if you want to confront him, avoid personal attacks or derogatory remarks. Focus on the issues at hand rather than resorting to divisive language.

We’re coming to two of my “favorite” notes now. Fasten seat belts!

7) You are a great person

If someone tells you:

“You’re a great person,” and “I’ve always admired you…”

This usually means that they really appreciate you and your qualities. However, it may also mean that they want to manipulate you.

The person who says they can use it to gain your support, influence you, or exploit your weakness.

Especially if it comes from the opposite sex.

Other times, someone might use it as a surface-level general compliment without any specific context or real respect.

Whatever the reason, I respond by saying, “Thank you for your kind words. I am grateful for your support, and I always strive to be the best version of myself.”

We have two more phrases remaining.

8) I’m really happy for you
“I’m really happy for you” is a difficult phrase. However, you can usually immediately tell where this word comes from depending on the person saying it.

They may use the phrase with a hidden layer of envy or jealousy. The person saying this may not be truly happy for you but is simply saying it outside of social convention or to hide his or her negative feelings.

In such cases, words may lack authenticity and be used to fake sincerity.

And finally…

9) I didn’t mean it that way
We often hear the phrase “I didn’t mean it that way” after saying something hurtful, and the person saying it is trying to take back their previous words.

On the other hand, some people use this phrase as a defensive or dismissive tactic to avoid taking responsibility and minimize the impact of their words.

If this phrase becomes a recurring problem, it may be necessary to set clear boundaries and expectations for respectful communication in the future.

Final thoughts
How many of these phrases have you encountered? Did it surprise you, and did you see through it?

If you want to learn more about this interesting topic, why not learn about the 21 subtle signs of fake people (and 10 effective ways to deal with them)?