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Jade Small
Jade Small
November 12, 2023 ·  4 min read

10 Phrases To Remember When Someone Is Rude To You

Picture this: you’re minding your own business, sashaying through life with your fabulous self, when suddenly, out of the blue, someone decides to sprinkle a dash of rudeness into your day. Well, darling, fear not! We’ve all been there, and let’s be honest, sometimes you need more than just an eye roll to handle the situation. That’s where our arsenal of witty comebacks comes in – a collection of ten constructive phrases that’ll put the rude person in their place. So, dust off your verbal tiara, because it’s time to show ’em their words mean nothing but a reflection of their own shame.

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1. “Someone’s Having a Bad Day

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In essence, using “Someone’s Having a Bad Day” is like diffusing a verbal bomb with a wink and a smile This allows you to protect your own emotional well-being while subtly inviting them to reflect on their actions. It’s a masterstroke in handling rudeness – like performing a ninja move of wit and empathy that leaves the rude-inflicting person with a touch of bemusement.

2. “I understand You’re Upset, But Was That Really Necessary?

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This phrase is both empathetic and probing. It shows you understand their pain, or whatever emotion they’re feeling. However, it also makes them rethink their words. This should give them the opportunity to rephrase their rudeness into something constructive.

3. “Can You Say That Again?”

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Sure, this might lead to a little more confrontation. So, you need to choose your timing wisely and save it for the right person. Most of the time, people say things without any intention of taking physical action. Ever heard the phrase, “All bark no bite?” Well, saying, “Can you say that again,” makes the person being rude to you rethink their words and they will quickly back down.

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4. “Let’s Agree To Disagree”

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Sometimes it’s unavoidable when someone you love is so adamant to get their point across that they resort to rudeness. But, your opinion won’t budge, and it shouldn’t have to! Neither should you have to tolerate the snide comments they throw at you. At this point, using the phrase, “Let’s agree to disagree,” can diffuse anyone’s argument. This level of maturity will put all the rudeness to shame.

5. “If You’re Trying To Be Rude, It’s Working”

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Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. Emotions run high, tension builds, and before you know it you’ve said something you regret the moment it leaves your lips. If someone you know is being rude to you, the chances are they didn’t mean what they said. Don’t retaliate with another rude comment. Remember: Playing fire with fire will always end in tears. This phrase will show them they’ve been rude. Hopefully, this will diffuse their anger and replace it with humility.

6. “Thanks, Your Perspective is Noted”

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Sometimes, all it takes is a little acknowledgment. This is a powerful phrase to use when someone is exhausting their efforts in trying to hurt your feelings. However, their words do not hold any power if you do not give it to them. Tell them you heard them by using this phrase. It is a conversation stopper of note.

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7. “Well That Was Uncalled For”

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The phrase “Well, That Was Uncalled For,” serves as a strategic response when faced with rudeness, acting as a subtle mirror that reflects their behavior back to them. By using this phrase, you’re not only asserting your boundaries but also highlighting the inappropriate nature of their remarks or actions.

8. “I’m Not Interested in Unproductive Conversations

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This phrase serves as a polite yet assertive way to communicate that you value meaningful and respectful conversations. By using these words, you’re essentially telling the rude person that criticism is worthless if not constructive. Moreover, it’s another way to assert your boundaries by showing them that you’re not willing to engage in a fruitless exchange of negativity.

9. “Let’s Take a Time Out”

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This is a strategic response that allows you to regain control over the situation and maintain your composure. There is no need to retaliate with more rudeness. By suggesting a time-out, you’re acknowledging that emotions are running high and that a brief pause is needed to prevent the situation from escalating further. It’s like hitting the pause button on a heated exchange, giving both parties an opportunity to collect their thoughts and emotions.

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10. Say Absolutely Nothing

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Finally, sometimes saying nothing says everything at once. Usually, when someone is being rude to you it’s because they want some kind of a reaction from you. But, you do not have to fall into that trap. Silence is a great way to avoid giving them the satisfaction that they got to you. It’s one of the best ways to deflate their ego. They won’t be able to continue being rude without looking like an idiot.

Keep Reading: 10 Powerful Psychological Tricks Everyone Should Know

Sources

  1. Use these 15 phrases when someone is rude to you.Hack Spirit. Lachlin Brown. July 29, 2023
  2. 10 Phrases to Remember When Someone Is Rude to You.Power of Positivity. March 25, 2021