Communications (words)
Introduction
The use of words is important when communicating.
Based on psychological principles and linguistic studies demonstrating the use of some words may undermine perceived intelligence, ie they make you come across as less competent than you really are.
“…The nuances of human communication are remarkably complex, often shaped by details we might overlook. One such detail is the words we use…”
Farley Ledgerwood, 2025
Some Words to Use More Selectively
1. Basically (often used as a filler, "basically" can come across as condescending or suggest that the listener needs simplification, potentially undermining your message.)
2. Honestly (prefacing statements with "honestly" may imply that previous statements were less truthful, inadvertently casting doubt on your credibility.)
3. Like (overusing "like" as a filler can make speech seem less confident and more juvenile; detracting from the speaker's authority, ie perceived as less professional and less articulate.)
4. Just (using "just" can minimize the importance of your statements or requests; making them seem less significant.
“… It actually diminishes the impact of your message and makes you seem uncertain or apologetic……Too often it can signal a lack of assertiveness and people surmise that you are not as confident you really are…… By eliminating ‘just’ from your vocabulary, you'll be able to communicate more directly and consistingly, enhancing your perceived intelligence in conversation…”
Farley Ledgerwood, 2025)
5. Always (absolutes like "always" can be easily challenged and may make arguments seem less nuanced or thoughtful.)
6. Never (similar to "always," "never" is an absolute that can be disproven with a single exception, weakening arguments.)
7. Actually (while sometimes used to correct misinformation, "actually" can come off as patronizing or imply that the listener is uninformed; it can be perceived as confrontational, ie suggests that you are correcting somebody.)
8. Literally (it can be used for emphasis; if misused, it can confuse your message and reduce your credibility.)
9. Maybe (using this word can give the impression of uncertainty about your thoughts and actions.)
10. Um (this is a filler word often used to help you gather your thoughts
“… Repeated use of ‘um’ can make you seem unprepared or unsure which can undermine your credibility…”
Farley Ledgerwood, 2025
It is better to embrace silence and pause before you speak as this makes you appear more thoughtful and measured, boosting your perceived intelligence.)
NB
“…It's not about eliminating these words entirely, but about using them judiciously…… and making your conversations more impactful……communications is not just about expressing ourselves, but also about how our words are received by others…”
Farley Ledgerwood, 2025
By being mindful of these words and opting for more precise language, you can enhance the clarity and perceived intelligence of your communication.