Top 10 Words and Phrases that are Not Problematic on Their Own, but Only Problematic People Seem to Say Them
Language is a fascinating thing. Words themselves, in isolation, often carry no inherent harm. However, context and intent can change everything.You've probably come across certain words or phrases that, on their own, seem perfectly harmless. But when they're spoken or written by a certain type of person, they just seem to take on a whole different flavor.
If you have to say "but," then you seriously need to take a look in the mirror and ask yourself if you even mean the first part of the phrase.
The old bait-and-switch. At least that's usually how it is if you're saying this out loud.
It was once a beautiful metaphor about the uniqueness of every human. Now, that idea has been tarnished by people who think that the idea of basic rights and justice is "weakness."
I love it when I make a point, but you shut me down, saying I'm being "emotional" for voicing my opinions. What an A-Tier person you are.
We are not wolves. We are humans. If you feel like we need to split up into groups like wolves, chances are the division will not leave you on top. In fact, it could land you in a Romanian prison cell.
Fun fact: the person who did the whole "alpha and omega wolf" study later retracted the entire thing after realizing the "alphas" were just the parents of the other wolves.
I hate this. I don't even want to talk about it. It's just indescribable.
Yes, let's just call another gender like they're some sort of animal. Ask yourself if you're the animal.
This isn't a nature documentary, and they aren't specimens. They are people as complex as you.
I use them interchangeably. Women for humans, females for animals.
It's pretty rude to say that if the woman in question is in severe pain. I'm not female, but I've heard that during that time of the menstrual cycle (which sometimes isn't even a month, defeating the point of the phrase), the uterus (a type of muscle) begins to cramp, which seems very painful. It also doesn't help that there's bleeding during the process.
I also don't understand why certain corporations and people say "she's just a teen" or "it's that time of the month again" when it can get serious. I'm looking at you, Pixar.
It's the devil. He doesn't need an advocate. He's powerful enough as it is. Most importantly, why does it have to be you? Are you on his side now?
People are not machines that you put politeness into and get romance out. They are beings with complex thoughts and ideas of their own. Nobody owes you a smile. If you have to go out of your way to say you are nice, maybe you aren't that nice. Let your actions speak for themselves.
I can't believe I forgot this one when I was making this list!
There needs to be a word for the type of person who doesn't say "it was a joke" until someone has a problem with it. If it was really a joke, it would have been made clear from the start. Even if it was a joke, that does not exempt it from criticism.
I remember my toxic ex-friend used to be like this. She would say something really mean-spirited as a "joke" and then call you a baby for getting upset at her.
(Okay, so there's more I agree with) - But honestly, calling something obviously offensive a so-called "joke" isn't that funny. Not funny, didn't laugh.
The Newcomers
Behold, the phrase that single-handedly destroyed Miraheze's reputation!
And you are not listening to my problem. I try to yell to make you understand, but all you hear is an echo.
So, I should just tuck my emotions inside like some kind of lifeless robot?
This one is taken straight from a Calvin & Hobbes strip.
And I'd like you to not throw a temper tantrum.
Your grandmother died. Deal with it. Not so cool anymore, is it?
I hate this phrase so much. If opinions did not matter, there would be no need for a debate in the first place. If all you can say to someone stating an opinion is that the opinion is an opinion, then you probably aren't adding anything.
If I state my opinion and present evidence, and you say that I don't have a valid reason, then yes, I will get angry.
(Not-so) fun fact: Saying "Trust me" will often cause people to trust you less.
Saying that just makes it even more offensive.
Similarly, "You're bringing up old issues."
No, I'm exposing a problem.
This would definitely be troublesome if you're saying this to someone who has a hard time controlling their emotions.
And my emotions negate any gravity to a situation?