Top Embarrassing Comments You’ll Regret In Conversations
We’ve all had those moments where our words seem to spill out uncontrollably, leading to cringe-worthy situations and regrets. Whether it’s a slip of the tongue or an awkward comment, these missteps in everyday conversation are common. Given how much we communicate, it’s bound to happen, but it doesn’t need to be a regular thing. Turns out, mastering the art of what not to say can cut down on those awkward moments. Best Life, a lifestyle magazine, collaborated with etiquette experts to create a list of embarrassing comments to avoid.
You’d think this would be obvious, but people still make these mistakes. At the top of the list is commenting about people’s weight. As someone currently expecting a baby, I often hear remarks about my size, like the all-too-common “Are you sure you’re not having twins?” It’s quite frustrating. According to one expert, “When we comment on someone’s weight, we don’t know if they gained or lost in a happy, healthy way. If someone wants you to comment on their weight, they will often offer information, like telling you about their diet.”
The outlet also points out that comments about age can be another touchy subject. There’s really no reason to bring it up. One expert shared a personal mishap recalling a time they said to a man while he was bouncing a toddler on his hip, “You don’t mean she’s your daughter; she’s your granddaughter!” The expert reflected, “He was her dad, he was older — and none of that was my business.”
I never really gave much thought to making assumptions, but apparently, guessing someone’s reaction in a conversation made the list. An expert pointed out that assuming someone’s response in a conversation is a common practice, but that doesn’t make it correct. These assumptions can be harmful. They said when you assume you know what someone else is thinking or feeling without them actually telling you or knowing all the details, you’re only seeing things from your own perspective and not fully understanding the other person’s point of view.
I’ll admit, I might be a repeat offender when it comes to one-upping, though it really depends on who I’m talking to. There’s definitely a time and place for it, though. One etiquette expert pointed out that one-upping can quickly shut down a conversation. “This can leave the other person feeling devalued, emotionally distant, and resentful,” explained the expert.
Another expert added that while sharing a similar story might seem tempting, it’s better to let the other person have their moment, take a breath, and respond to their story before jumping into your own.
Check out the complete list of embarrassing comments you’ll regret making in conversations here.
