They seem kind, attentive, almost perfect. But certain sentences quickly reveal that this benevolence is being played. In personal life as well as at work, here are ten typical expressions of fake nice guys, to recognize as soon as they fall.
When kindness becomes a role
In friendly, family or professional relationships, it is not always easy to distinguish true benevolence from simple social veneer. Some know how to perfectly balance the tone, the words, the gestures. But their sentences often end up betraying them. These little formulas, seemingly banal, sometimes reveal a hidden intention: to sting without appearing to do so, to manipulate while maintaining an impeccable image. Here are ten expressions to recognize without delay.
The 10 typical phrases of fake nice people
- 1.”I’m just being honest…“: This preamble often precedes a disguised criticism. It is the ideal way to launch a hurtful comment while giving oneself the beautiful role of frankness;
- 2.”No offense, but…“: A red alert. The one who speaks knows that he will offend, but is already trying to wash his hands of it. This is not benevolence, it is emotional casualness;
- 3.”I hate stories…“: Ironic: those who pronounce it are often the first to provoke them. Behind this calm posture hides a need for control or justification;
- 4.”I’m not one to peddle, but…“: Translation: a rumor will follow. It is the phrase of assumed gossip, which is adorned with a falsely discreet air;
- 5.”I’m kidding !“: The great classic of sarcasm. After a dig, this little word allows you to defuse any responsibility. But humor, when it hurts, is no longer funny;
- 6.”Soothe your heart…“: Poetic, but condescending. It often aims to demean the other’s emotions, to make them appear too sensitive or too intense;
- 7. “I was just trying to help…”: The reflex of false benefactors. This sentence seeks to invalidate the feelings of the other under the pretext of noble intention;
- 8.”I don’t mean to sound rude, but…“: A way to prepare the ground before an unpleasant remark. Politeness should not need a warning;
- 9. “But that’s just my opinion…“: Under the guise of humility, it is often a judgment that we do not assume. This distant tone allows us to cut the dialogue short;
- 10.”Don’t take this personally…“: This is the most revealing sentence. It authorizes the injury while denying the right to suffer from it. A subtle, but effective manipulation.
Behind the words, the intention
True kindness has nothing to prove. It is expressed through respect, listening and consistency between words and actions. These sentences often say the opposite: they hide a desire to dominate while appearing benevolent. Once you spot them, it’s hard not to hear them anymore.