10 phrases a narcissist casually uses to make you feel like less of a person

From the Personal Branding Blog

Navigating the world of narcissism can be a tricky business. Narcissists have a knack for subtly putting you down, all the while appearing innocent.

This, my friends, is not about influence – it’s manipulation. Narcissists are experts at using language to make you feel smaller, all while maintaining their charm.

In this article, we will uncover 10 phrases that narcissists casually use to belittle you. These are phrases that could easily slip under the radar, but once you’re aware of them, they’ll stand out like a sore thumb.

Knowledge is power. Let’s dive in and arm ourselves against this subtle form of manipulation.

1) “I don’t mean to be rude, but…”

Navigating the narcissist’s world is like navigating a landmine field. And one of their favorite tools is the undermining compliment.

A master manipulator, the narcissist often starts their sentences with “I don’t mean to be rude, but…”, or “Not to be offensive, but…”. This is a classic tactic to soften the blow of an impending insult or criticism.

Why does it work? Well, it creates a sense of false sincerity. The narcissist appears as though they are considering your feelings and are aware of the potential hurt their words may cause.

But don’t be fooled. What follows these phrases is usually a direct or veiled criticism aimed at diminishing your self-esteem and making you feel less than.

Beware of these wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing phrases. They are one of the many ways a narcissist casually tries to make you feel smaller than you are.

2) “You’re overreacting”

Oh, how I remember the first time I heard this phrase. It was from my very own friend, a textbook narcissist. I had just expressed my feelings about how his behavior was affecting me negatively.

His immediate response? “You’re overreacting.”

This phrase is a classic tool in the narcissist’s arsenal. It’s a subtle way of invalidating your feelings and experiences. By accusing you of overreacting, they’re subtly suggesting that your emotions are irrational, exaggerated, and not to be taken seriously.

In retrospect, I can see that his response was not about my reaction at all but a way for him to deflect from his own actions. Narcissists use this phrase to make you question your own judgement and feelings, often leading to self-doubt and confusion.

No one has the right to dictate how you should feel or react. Your emotions are valid and deserve to be heard and respected.

3) “I’m not argumentative, I’m just right”

The narcissist is never wrong. Or at least, that’s what they’d like you to believe. “I’m not argumentative, I’m just right,” is a phrase they use to assert dominance and superiority over others.

This phrase gives us a glimpse into the narcissist’s world where they are always superior, always correct. To them, admitting they are wrong is akin to admitting they are flawed or imperfect.

But here’s something to consider. According to research done by Dr. Craig Malkin, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School, narcissists aren’t necessarily deluded about their abilities or accomplishments. They’re fully aware that they’re embellishing and inflating.

When you hear this phrase, remember it’s less about maintaining accuracy and more about maintaining their inflated self-image.

4) “No one else has a problem with it”

Narcissists have a knack for making you feel like the odd one out. One of their go-to phrases is “No one else has a problem with it”.

By using this phrase, they effectively isolate you, making you feel like your concerns or objections are invalid because no one else seems to share them. It’s a sneaky way to deflect from your concerns and to make you second guess yourself.

Just because others might not have voiced similar concerns, doesn’t make yours any less valid. Don’t let a narcissist manipulate you into dismissing your own feelings or observations. Your concerns matter, regardless of whether others share them or not.

5) “You’re just too sensitive”

Another classic phrase narcissists love to use is “You’re just too sensitive”. This is another means of undermining your feelings and belittling your experiences.

When a narcissist tells you that you’re too sensitive, it’s their way of dismissing your feelings and shifting the blame onto you. Instead of acknowledging their hurtful actions or words, they make it about your reaction to them.

This phrase is a clear indicator of a lack of empathy, a common trait among narcissists. Your feelings are your own and no one has the right to dismiss them or label them as ‘too much’. Your sensitivity is not a weakness, but a strength that fosters understanding and empathy – qualities the narcissist lacks.

6) “I was just joking”

“I was just joking” – a phrase we’ve all heard at some point, often used by a narcissist after a particularly hurtful comment or action.

This is a particularly insidious tactic because it allows them to deliver a blow and then immediately undermine your reaction. If you express hurt or discomfort, they can easily dismiss it as you not being able to take a joke.

It’s important to remember that humor should never be used as a disguise for disrespect. Your feelings are valid. If a ‘joke’ hurts, it’s not funny. Stand firm in your feelings and don’t let anyone make you believe that you’re overreacting to their ‘humor’.

7) “Can’t you take a compliment?”

I’ll never forget the day I wore a new dress to a social gathering. I was feeling good about myself, until a narcissistic acquaintance of mine decided to comment, “That dress looks great on you, I could never pull it off with my figure.”

It was meant to be a compliment, but it left me feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable. When I voiced my discomfort, the response was simple – “Can’t you take a compliment?”

Narcissists are experts at giving backhanded compliments – comments that appear to be compliments but are actually veiled insults. And when you call them out on it, they make you feel like you’re the problem for not being able to ‘take a compliment’.

The truth is, compliments should make you feel good, not uneasy or insulted. Trust your intuition and don’t let anyone make you feel bad for rejecting a ‘compliment’ that doesn’t sit right with you.

8) “I only want what’s best for you”

It sounds caring, doesn’t it? The phrase “I only want what’s best for you” often comes from a place of love and concern. But when used by a narcissist, it takes on a different meaning.

In reality, it’s a tool for control. What they’re really saying is “I know better than you”. They use this phrase to justify their manipulation and control, under the guise of caring for your well-being.

It’s a twisted way of making you feel like they have your best interests at heart, when in fact, they’re only considering their own. Always remember that you’re the best judge of what’s right for you. Don’t let anyone else make those decisions for you.

9) “You’ll never find someone like me”

Narcissists possess a heightened sense of self-importance and superiority. Hence, they often use phrases like “You’ll never find someone like me” to make you feel dependent on them or feel lesser without them.

This phrase preys on your insecurities and fears of being alone. It’s a manipulative tactic used to make you feel like they are the best you can ever have, and that you’re lucky to have them.

But remember, everyone is unique and irreplaceable in their own way, including you. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise or make you feel less than who you are.

10) “You’re too emotional”

Here’s the thing you need to remember: being emotional is not a weakness. Narcissists, however, will often tell you otherwise. “You’re too emotional” is a phrase they use to undermine your feelings and make you feel weak or irrational.

This phrase is a form of gaslighting, a psychological manipulation tactic narcissists commonly use to make their victims doubt their own reality and sanity. By labeling you as ‘too emotional’, they dismiss your feelings and experiences as invalid or exaggerated.

Don’t let anyone belittle your emotions. Feelings are a normal part of being human, and expressing them is healthy and necessary. Always remember that your emotions are valid, and it’s okay to feel.

Final thoughts: Knowledge is power

The complex web of human interactions is often laced with subtleties that are not always easy to decipher. Especially when dealing with a narcissist, it’s essential to be aware of the verbal traps they set.

Recognizing these phrases and understanding the intent behind them is your first line of defense. It empowers you to stand your ground, validate your feelings, and protect your self-esteem.

Sigmund Freud once said, “Words have a magical power. They can bring either the greatest happiness or deepest despair.” When wielded by a narcissist, they can indeed cause despair. But armed with knowledge, you can counteract their effect.

Remember, you have the right to be treated with respect and kindness. Don’t let anyone use words to make you feel less than the amazing person you are.

Stay strong, stay informed, and remember – you’re not alone in this.

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