10 words you should stop using if you want to sound intelligent

As we navigate through our daily lives, words become our tools of expression. Unfortunately, just as a worn-out tool can hinder our work, certain words can detract from our perceived intelligence.

We all want to sound clever and articulate, but sometimes, we unknowingly use words that undermine our credibility.

The good news is, by steering clear of these words, we can enhance our communication and appear more intelligent.

Ready to upgrade your vocabulary? Here’s a quick guide to 10 words you should stop using if you want to sound intelligent.

1) Literally

It’s a word that’s slipped into our everyday language, often used for emphasis or to exaggerate a point. However, when you say something is ‘literally’ happening, you’re stating it is happening in the most exact sense.

Unfortunately, the overuse and misuse of ‘literally’ has led to an erosion of its true meaning. It’s become a filler word, much like ‘um’ or ‘like’, which can detract from your message and make you seem less articulate.

The next time you’re tempted to insert ‘literally’ into your conversation, pause and think: Is it necessary? Does it add value? If the answer is no, then it’s better left unsaid.

Being selective with your words can make you sound more intelligent and help your audience focus on your message rather than getting distracted by unnecessary fillers.

2) Just

Oh, how I’ve had my battles with this one. ‘Just’ is a word that seems harmless, but it can subtly undermine your confidence and credibility.

I remember a time when I had to present a proposal to my team. I started with, “I just think we should consider this approach…”. My use of ‘just’ diluted the strength of my suggestion and, in hindsight, it sounded as though I was apologizing for my idea before even presenting it.

The word ‘just’ can often imply that what you’re saying is trivial or unimportant. It’s a small word with a big impact.

If you want to come across as confident and intelligent, try dropping the ‘just’ from your vocabulary. You’ll notice that your ideas and suggestions carry more weight without it.

3) Irregardless

Here’s a word that has sparked many a debate among language purists. ‘Irregardless’ is often used interchangeably with ‘regardless’, but its validity as a word is disputed.

In fact, it’s a blend of two words: ‘irrespective’ and ‘regardless’. Both have the same meaning, making ‘irregardless’ redundant and grammatically incorrect.

Using ‘irregardless’ can make you seem less knowledgeable, especially to those who are well-versed in the English language. So, stick to ‘regardless’ or ‘irrespective’ to avoid raising any grammatical eyebrows.

4) Like

This word has taken root in our daily conversations, often used as a filler or a verbal pause. However, overuse of ‘like’ can quickly diminish the perceived intelligence of the speaker.

While it’s perfectly acceptable to use ‘like’ when making comparisons or quoting someone, using it as a filler word can become a bad habit that’s hard to break.

If you find yourself using ‘like’ too often, try pausing and thinking before you speak. This can help you articulate your thoughts more clearly and sound more intelligent.

5) Actually

‘Actually’ is another word that’s often overused and misused. It’s intended to denote something surprising or unexpected, but it’s frequently used as a filler word, reducing its impact and potentially making you sound less intelligent.

Moreover, ‘actually’ can also come across as condescending or argumentative when used unnecessarily. For example, saying “Actually, I think you’re wrong” can be viewed as confrontational.

Use ‘actually’ sparingly and only when it truly adds value to your statement. Being mindful of this can help you come across as more articulate and respectful.

6) Um

We’ve all been there. Searching for the right words, and out pops an ‘um’. It’s a common filler word that we use when we’re thinking or nervous.

But here’s the thing. Each ‘um’ can chip away at the image of intelligence and confidence we’re trying to project. And while it might seem harmless, it can create an impression of uncertainty or lack of knowledge.

Replacing ‘um’ with a pause can change the game. It gives you time to think, adds weight to your words, and shows your audience that you’re comfortable with silence. This simple change can make you sound more intelligent, confident, and sincere.

7) Honestly

I remember a time when I started almost every sentence with ‘honestly’. It seemed like a good way to stress my sincerity and transparency. But over time, I realized that it could give the impression that I wasn’t always honest.

‘Honestly’ is a word that should be used sparingly. When overused, it can raise doubts about the truthfulness of your other statements. After all, if you’re always emphasizing your honesty, it can make people wonder if you’re sometimes less than honest.

Save ‘honestly’ for those situations where you really need to emphasize your sincerity, and let your actions affirm your honesty in all other circumstances.

8) Very

When you want to add emphasis to a statement, ‘very’ might seem like the go-to word. But surprisingly, it can have the opposite effect.

‘Very’ is a weak intensifier that does little to enhance the adjective it precedes. Instead of saying you’re ‘very happy’, why not say you’re ‘ecstatic’? Or instead of being ‘very tired’, you could be ‘exhausted’.

By opting for a stronger, more descriptive adjective, you can convey your message more effectively and sound more intelligent. As Mark Twain once said, “Substitute ‘damn’ every time you’re inclined to write ‘very’; your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.”

9) Always/Never

‘Always’ and ‘never’ are absolutes that can box you into a corner. They leave no room for exceptions or nuance, and can make your statements sound overly rigid or dramatic.

For example, saying “I always arrive on time” might not be entirely accurate. There could be instances when traffic or unexpected events caused delays.

Similarly, “I never eat junk food” might sound like a healthy habit, but it can also come off as an inflexible stance.

Using less absolute language such as ‘usually’ or ‘rarely’ not only sounds more intelligent but also offers a more accurate reflection of reality.

10) Stuff

‘Stuff’ is a generic term that can make your speech sound vague and unimpressive. It lacks precision and can give the impression that you’re not fully knowledgeable about the topic at hand.

Instead of saying ‘stuff’, try to be specific. If you’re talking about your responsibilities at work, list them out instead of saying “I handle a lot of stuff”. Or, if you’re discussing your hobbies, name them rather than referring to them as ‘stuff’.

Being specific and precise in your language not only makes you sound more intelligent, but it also helps your listener or reader understand your message more clearly.

Words as a reflection

The legendary author George Orwell once said, “Don’t use a long word where a short one will do.” It’s a reminder that intelligence isn’t about using complex language or big words. It’s about being clear, concise, and deliberate with our speech.

As we consciously choose to drop these 10 words from our day-to-day language, we make space for more meaningful and impactful words. We make way for conversation that doesn’t just sound smart, but truly resonates with those around us.