8 phrases only people with class and good manners use

It’s a universal truth that can’t be denied:

People with class and good manners really stand out from the crowd.

I’ve spent a good chunk of my life observing these individuals, trying to decipher what sets them apart. And no, it’s not always about their expensive clothes or flashy cars.

There’s something more subtle at play here.

It’s the phrases they use, the way they communicate their thoughts and feelings. And I’m not just talking about politeness here.

You see, there are people who try to mimic this behavior but often fall short. Authenticity can’t be faked, after all.

In this article, I am going to share 8 phrases that are commonly used by people with real class and good manners. These aren’t just words; they’re a reflection of their character.

This is the key to understanding what true class and good manners look like in action.

1) “Please” and “Thank you”

It might sound overly simplistic, but let’s start with the basics.

We all learned the importance of saying “please” and “thank you” when we were children. And of course, everyone continues to say these words when we know the situation calls for it.

Yet, some of us often forget these simple words in our daily interactions.

I remember a concert I was volunteering at where a guest came to ask a question at reception. The manager had barely finished answering when the guest had already turned away and walked off.

She was so concerned and wrapped up with her thoughts and problem that it didn’t cross her mind to say thank you first.

However, those with class and good manners never do this.

No matter what’s going on, they always conserve an appreciation for other people’s time and help. To them, these words are not just an after-thought or an obligation — it’s a part of their upbringing, and even their identity. 

2) “I appreciate you”

This is a phrase that I’ve found to be incredibly powerful.

There’s something about being appreciated that makes us feel valued and seen. And I believe that expressing our appreciation for others is more than just good manners—it’s a reflection of our character.

“I appreciate you” is not a phrase I use lightly. For me, it’s a heartfelt statement that I reserve for those who have truly made a difference in my life. It’s more personal than a simple “thank you,” because it’s about recognizing the person, not just their actions.

Classy and well-mannered individuals understand this distinction. They don’t just throw around phrases like “I appreciate you” without sincerity. They use it to convey genuine gratitude and recognition, which only adds to their authenticity.

And this is important because people can tell when you genuinely mean it. It’s one of those phrases that can’t be faked, no matter how hard some might try.

3) “How can I help?”

Allow me to share a personal story.

A few years ago, I found myself in a bit of a pickle. I was moving apartments, and it was proving to be more challenging than I had anticipated. I was overwhelmed, stressed, and quite frankly, in over my head.

A friend of mine happened to call me that day just ot catch up. He could tell from my voice that something was off and asked me what was wrong. After hearing my plight, without missing a beat, he asked, “How can I help?”

It wasn’t just the words but the genuine concern in his voice that touched me. He didn’t just offer vague assistance or empty promises; a lot of people in his position would have just said “Aw, I’m sorry to hear that, I hope things get better.”

But he wanted to know how he could specifically be of help.

That’s why, in my opinion, this is a phrase that truly separates the wheat from the chaff when it comes to class and manners.

It’s not about appearing concerned; it’s about being willing to step up and offer assistance when it’s needed.

4) “I’m sorry”

Did you know that the average person says “I’m sorry” approximately 8 times a day? Yet, how many of these apologies are truly sincere?

The phrase “I’m sorry” is often used as a quick fix, a band-aid solution to diffuse tension or avoid confrontation. But those with genuine class and good manners understand the true weight of this phrase.

To them, “I’m sorry” isn’t just about admitting a mistake. It’s about acknowledging the impact of their actions on others and expressing genuine remorse.

It’s not merely a reflexive response but a deliberate act of humility and responsibility.

When someone with true class and manners says “I’m sorry”, it’s not about saving face or avoiding blame. It’s about mending relationships and building trust.

5) “You’re right”

After extensive observation, I’ve noticed something fascinating.

People with genuine class and good manners aren’t afraid to admit when they’re wrong. They’re secure enough in themselves to acknowledge the merit in someone else’s argument or idea.

This is where the phrase “You’re right” comes into play.

It’s not about surrendering or losing an argument. Instead, it’s about recognizing and validating the other person’s perspective. It’s about fostering a sense of openness and respect in conversation, rather than turning it into a battlefield.

With this mindset, people don’t use “You’re right” begrudgingly or as a last resort. They say it with sincerity when they genuinely believe that the other person makes a valid point.

In doing so, they show that they value truth and fairness over ego — hallmarks of having true class and manners.

6) “Excuse me”

It’s incredible how two simple words can convey so much respect.

“Excuse me” is a phrase that we often hear, but not everyone uses it with the right intent. It’s more than just a polite way to get someone’s attention or to pass by.

It’s a sign of respect towards the other person’s space, time, and attention.

So you might hear everyone using this phrase, but just like “please” and “thank you,” people with class use it in particular ways.

They don’t just blurt out “Excuse me” as a reflex when they bump into someone; you can tell they’re really conscious of the effect they have on others around them because they say it even before they might inconvenience or bother someone, such as before interrupting or stepping into someone’s personal space.

This phrase is their way of showing consideration for others, a sign that they’re not just wrapped up in themselves but carrying themselves consciously through their interactions and always with care towards other people.

7) “It was my pleasure”

This phrase is one that I’ve often heard from individuals who exude class and good manners. It goes beyond the customary “You’re welcome” in response to a “Thank you”.

Saying “It was my pleasure” conveys a sense of genuine happiness derived from being helpful or kind to someone. It shows that the act of helping or serving wasn’t a burden but indeed a source of joy.

When a person really has class and good manners, this phrase comes out naturally because they embody it. It’s not just a robotic response, but you can see in their tone and body language that they mean it.

That’s when you know this is a person who is not just being polite but loves creating positive experiences for others. It’s a reflection of their inner grace and goodwill. 

8) “Let’s agree to disagree”

This is a phrase I’ve come to admire deeply.

In a world where disagreements can quickly escalate into bitter arguments, the ability to gracefully agree to disagree is a sign of true class and good manners.

“Let’s agree to disagree” is not about giving up on an argument or avoiding conflict. It’s about acknowledging that it’s okay to have different viewpoints. It’s about showing respect for the other person’s perspective, even if you don’t share the same opinion.

People with genuine class and manners understand this. They don’t use this phrase to escape tough conversations, but to conserve peace and promote mutual respect.

By saying “Let’s agree to disagree,” they’re essentially saying, “I respect your viewpoint, even though I don’t agree with it.”

They don’t feel the need to try to convince everyone around them to think the same way they do, but are happy to let other opinions exist alongside their own.

And that, in my opinion, is one of the most significant markers of true class and good manners.

The take-away

Having genuine class and good manners is not about impressing others or putting on a show. It’s about being your authentic self and treating others with respect and kindness.

The phrases we’ve explored here are more than just words. They’re manifestations of a mindset, a way of life. They reflect an attitude that values others and seeks to build meaningful, respectful relationships.

When we use these phrases authentically, we’re not just being polite, we’re showing the world who we really are. We’re showing our true class and good manners.