A Communication Expert Says to Stop Using These 3 Phrases at Work

October 6, 2025

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The way you speak at work can make or break how others perceive you. Even small phrases (ones that sound polite or harmless) can quietly undermine your authority, confidence, or credibility. Communication experts say that certain common expressions create doubt or defensiveness without you realizing it. If you’ve ever left a meeting wondering why your ideas didn’t land, your word choice might be the culprit. Here are three phrases communication experts say you should stop using at work, and what to say instead.

1. “I Could Be Wrong, But…”

At first glance, this phrase seems humble and diplomatic. You might use it to soften a statement or invite collaboration, but what it really does is weaken your credibility. Starting with “I could be wrong” tells people not to take your point seriously before they’ve even heard it. According to communication coaches, this kind of verbal disclaimer subconsciously signals insecurity. Instead, try phrases like “Here’s another perspective” or “Based on what I’ve seen…” They sound confident without being confrontational.

2. “Does That Make Sense?”

This phrase often slips out at the end of explanations or presentations, especially when you’re trying to check for understanding. But experts say it unintentionally suggests that you doubt your own clarity, or worse, that you’re questioning the listener’s ability to understand. It can come across as condescending or self-doubting, depending on tone and timing. A better alternative is, “What are your thoughts on that?” or “How does that sound to you?” These keep the conversation open while reinforcing that your message was clear and worth discussing.

3. “Sorry, But…”

Apologies have their place, but overusing “sorry” in professional settings can make you seem uncertain or submissive. Many people use it reflexively to soften requests (“Sorry, can I ask a question?”) or to preempt disagreement (“Sorry, but I think we should try this instead”). The problem is that constant apologizing erodes your authority and shifts focus away from your ideas. Instead, skip the apology and get straight to your point: “Can I ask a question?” or “I have a different approach I’d like to suggest.” Confidence communicates respect more effectively than needless apologies.

Why These Phrases Hurt More Than Help

Each of these phrases, though polite in intent, chips away at how people perceive your confidence and competence. In professional environments, subtle language cues shape trust, influence, and collaboration more than you might think. When you lead with doubt, listeners mirror that doubt back to you, even subconsciously. Over time, these habits can create a reputation for hesitation rather than leadership. By removing these small verbal crutches, you train others to take your words and your work more seriously.

Speak With Purpose, Not Permission

The biggest communication shift you can make is realizing you don’t need to apologize for having an opinion. Every word you say at work shapes your professional image, whether you’re aware of it or not. When you remove phrases that undercut your message, your confidence begins to fill the silence they leave behind. The difference between being heard and being remembered often comes down to word choice. Speak with intention, and you won’t need permission to be respected.

Which workplace phrase do you hear people overuse the most? Have you caught yourself saying any of these? Share your thoughts in the comments below.