There’s a fine line between sounding smart and trying too hard.
Let’s face it, we all want to sound intelligent, but using big, complex words isn’t always the best approach. In fact, it can have the opposite effect, making us sound pretentious or out of touch.
And believe me, there are some words that you’d be better off avoiding entirely if you want to come across as intelligent.
In this article, I’m going to share nine words you should never use if you want to sound smart. Are you ready? Let’s dive in.
1) “Literally”
We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of a conversation, and you’re trying to emphasize a point. So you reach for the word “literally”.
The problem is, this word is often misused and overused. In fact, it’s become so common that its meaning has been diluted, and it now ranks among the top words that make you sound less intelligent.
Why? Well, when you use “literally” incorrectly (to mean “figuratively,” for example), it can make you seem uninformed. And when you use it too often, it can make you seem lazy or unoriginal.
So if you want to sound smart, try to avoid this word. Instead, aim for clarity and precision in your language. Trust me, it’s a much more effective way to get your point across—and to sound intelligent while doing it.
2) “Irregardless”
I remember a time when I was presenting to a group of colleagues. I was trying to convey the importance of a project and in my enthusiasm, I let slip the word “irregardless”.
Immediately, I noticed a slight shift in the room. A few people exchanged glances and I knew something was off. Later, a friend pulled me aside and gently pointed out my mistake.
“Irregardless” is not a real word. It’s a common misnomer for “regardless” or “irrespective”. Using it doesn’t make you sound smarter, it actually does the opposite.
That day, I learned an important lesson about the power of language, and how using incorrect or non-existent words can instantly undermine your credibility. So, take it from me – stick to “regardless” or “irrespective”. Your reputation will thank you.
3) “Supposably”
This might come as a surprise, but “supposably” isn’t a universally accepted word. It’s often used in place of “supposedly,” which is the correct term to use when something is presumed or believed to be true.
“Supposably” has found its way into some dictionaries due to its prevalent misuse, but it is still considered nonstandard by many linguists and scholars.
The use of “supposably” instead of “supposedly” can be seen as a red flag that a speaker isn’t well-versed in their language. So, if you want to sound intelligent, stick with “supposedly”. It’s a small change, but it can make a big difference.
4) “Ain’t”
While “ain’t” is often used in casual conversations or in certain regional dialects, it’s not usually considered appropriate in formal or professional settings.
The word “ain’t” is a contraction of “am not,” “is not,” “are not,” “has not,” or “have not.” However, it’s often seen as slang and can make you appear less educated or articulate than you actually are.
If you want to sound intelligent, it’s best to avoid “ain’t” and use the proper contraction or full form instead. This small adjustment can improve the perception others have of your language skills and overall intelligence.
5) “Conversate”
In the world of language, “conversate” is what’s known as a back-formation. It’s derived by removing what seems like an affix (like “-ion” or “-ment”) from a longer word—in this case, “conversation”.
While some might argue that language evolves and words like “conversate” should be accepted, many still view it as a nonstandard term. The correct verb form of “conversation” is actually “converse”.
Using “conversate” when you mean “converse” can make you come across as less knowledgeable. So, when in doubt, stick with “converse”. It’s the safer—and smarter—choice.
6) “Anyways”
The word “anyways” is one that’s often used in casual conversation, and it can feel natural to slip it into our everyday language. But here’s the thing – the word “anyways” is actually a nonstandard form of the word “anyway”.
I know it might seem like a small detail, but using “anyway” instead of “anyways” can make a big difference in how others perceive your intelligence. It shows that you care about using language correctly, which can reflect positively on your overall intelligence and attention to detail.
So next time you’re about to say “anyways”, take a moment. Remember the correct form is “anyway”. It’s these little changes that can really elevate your language and make you sound more intelligent.
7) “Expresso”
I love my coffee, but even so, I’ve had my own mishaps when it comes to ordering espresso. For years, I’d order my usual double shot of “expresso” without a second thought. It wasn’t until a barista friend kindly corrected me that I realized my mistake.
Using the incorrect term “expresso” can give the impression that you’re not well-informed, even if you are a coffee connoisseur.
So whether you’re ordering at a café or discussing your favorite brew, remember it’s “espresso”. It’s not just about sounding intelligent, but also about respecting the culture and language from which the word originates.
8) “I could care less”
This phrase is often used to express indifference, but it can be confusing. Saying “I could care less” actually implies that you do care to some degree, because it suggests there’s room for you to care even less.
The correct phrase is “I couldn’t care less,” indicating that you have no care or concern left for the topic at hand.
Misusing this phrase can make you seem unaware of basic language conventions. So, remember to say “I couldn’t care less” if you want to express total indifference and sound intelligent while doing so.
9) “Pacifically”
This one is crucial. If there’s one word mispronunciation that can instantly make you sound less intelligent, it’s saying “pacifically” when you mean “specifically”.
“Specifically” means to talk about something in a precise and clear manner. On the other hand, “pacifically” isn’t a real word—it’s just a common mispronunciation.
So, to ensure you’re communicating effectively and sounding intelligent, always take care to say “specifically”. It’s a vital detail that can significantly influence how others perceive your language skills and overall intelligence.
Final thoughts: Language is a mirror
Language is more than just a tool for communication—it’s a reflection of who we are.
Each word we choose, each phrase we utter, reveals a little more about us. It can showcase our intelligence, our thoughtfulness, and even our respect for others and for the language itself.
The words we’ve discussed in this article are merely the tip of the iceberg. There’s so much more to discover and understand about language and its intricacies.
Remember, it’s not about memorizing lists of “good” or “bad” words. It’s about being mindful of our language choices, understanding the impact they have, and continuously striving to improve.
So next time you speak or write, pause for a moment. Consider your words. Are they the best reflection of you? Because ultimately, your language is your mirror, reflecting your intelligence to the world.