Mindfulness

40 Phrases You Probably Use At Work (But Try To Avoid)

Truworth Wellness

Dec 13, 2024 • 5 min read

Communication plays a critical role in shaping our workplace dynamics. While some phrases may feel like second nature, they can inadvertently convey the wrong message or tone. From overused jargon to potentially negative expressions, these small missteps can add up, affecting clarity and collaboration. In this blog, we explore 40 phrases commonly used at work that you should try to avoid, along with thoughtful alternatives to ensure your communication remains clear, professional, and empathetic.

1. "Just checking in"

Why avoid? Can sound pushy or impatient.
Alternative: "Following up on our last conversation."

2. "Let me know if you need anything"

Why avoid? Feels vague and unhelpful.
Alternative: "Is there anything specific I can assist with?"

3. "To be honest..."

Why avoid? Implies you’re not always honest.
Alternative: Simply state your point.

4. "I’ll circle back"

Why avoid? Can seem noncommittal or overused.
Alternative: "I’ll revisit this after gathering more information."

5. "Think outside the box"

Why avoid? Overused and vague.
Alternative: "Let’s approach this creatively."

6. "Let’s table this"

Why avoid? Can feel dismissive.
Alternative: "We’ll prioritize this later."

7. "Per my last email"

Why avoid? Sounds passive-aggressive.
Alternative: "As mentioned earlier..."

8. "Low-hanging fruit"

Why avoid? Can sound lazy or dismissive of easy tasks.
Alternative: "Quick wins."

9. "Let's touch base"

Why avoid? Vague and overused.
Alternative: "Let's connect on this."

10. "At the end of the day"

Why avoid? Cliché and redundant.
Alternative: "Ultimately."

11. "Sorry to bother you"

Why avoid? Undermines your confidence.
Alternative: "I appreciate your time."

12. "Let’s circle back offline"

Why avoid? Can sound evasive.
Alternative: "Let’s discuss this in more detail later."

13. "It’s not my job"

Why avoid? Comes off as uncooperative.
Alternative: "I’ll connect you with the right person."

14. "We’ve always done it this way"

Why avoid? Resistant to innovation.
Alternative: "Let’s explore if this still works well."

15. "Synergy"

Why avoid? Overused buzzword.
Alternative: "Collaboration" or "team effort."

16. "I’ll try"

Why avoid? Sounds uncertain.
Alternative: "I’ll do my best."

17. "Let me take this offline"

Why avoid? Often unclear or abrupt.
Alternative: "Let’s discuss privately."

18. "It is what it is"

Why avoid? Defeats problem-solving.
Alternative: "Let’s focus on what we can control."

19. "Does that make sense?"

Why avoid? Can sound condescending.
Alternative: "What are your thoughts on this?"

20. "No problem"

Why avoid? Can downplay the effort you put in.
Alternative: "Happy to help."

21. "I think..."

Why avoid? Reduces confidence in your statement.
Alternative: "I believe" or "Based on my analysis."

22. "We need to pivot"

Why avoid? Overused buzzword.
Alternative: "We need to shift direction."

23. "Let’s run it up the flagpole"

Why avoid? Jargon-heavy and unclear.
Alternative: "Let’s get approval."

24. "Sorry for the delay"

Why avoid? Avoid over-apologizing.
Alternative: "Thank you for your patience."

25. "That’s not possible"

Why avoid? Sounds negative or final.
Alternative: "Here’s what we can do instead."

26. "I don’t have time for that"

Why avoid? Dismissive and unhelpful.
Alternative: "Can we prioritize this for later?"

27. "In the loop"

Why avoid? Overused and vague.
Alternative: "Updated regularly."

28. "Moving forward"

Why avoid? Can sound filler-like.
Alternative: "From here on."

29. "It’s above my pay grade"

Why avoid? Dismissive and unprofessional.
Alternative: "Let me escalate this appropriately."

30. "It’s not a big deal"

Why avoid? Downplays others’ concerns.
Alternative: "I understand, let’s resolve it."

31. "ASAP"

Why avoid? Can sound demanding or rushed.
Alternative: "At your earliest convenience."

32. "Let’s take a deep dive"

Why avoid? Overused metaphor.
Alternative: "Let’s examine this closely."

33. "I’ll loop back with you"

Why avoid? Jargon-heavy.
Alternative: "I’ll get back to you."

34. "We’ll burn the midnight oil"

Why avoid? Implies overworking is acceptable.
Alternative: "We’ll manage this efficiently."

35. "That’s not how we do things here"

Why avoid? Stifles innovation and new ideas.
Alternative: "Let’s explore how this approach might work for us."

36. "We’re swamped"

Why avoid? Can make you seem overwhelmed or unprepared.
Alternative: "Our workload is high, but we’re managing priorities."

37. "I’ll deal with it later"

Why avoid? Shows procrastination or lack of urgency.
Alternative: "Let’s schedule a time to address this."

38. "That’s above my head"

Why avoid? Suggests disengagement or lack of responsibility.
Alternative: "Let me consult with the right people to resolve this."

39. "This may be a dumb question..."

Why avoid? Undermines your confidence before you even speak.
Alternative: Simply ask the question confidently.

40. "I don’t know"

Why avoid? Can seem unhelpful if left without follow-up.
Alternative: "Let me find out and get back to you."

Conclusion

The language we use in the workplace is more than just words—it reflects our attitude, professionalism, and respect for others. You can create a more positive, supportive, and efficient work environment by eliminating these phrases and adopting the suggested alternatives. Remember, communication isn’t just about what we say—it’s about how we make others feel. Make intentional choices with your words and watch as your workplace interactions transform for the better.

Let’s start fostering meaningful connections, one thoughtful phrase at a time!