Have you ever offended someone by something you said and didn’t know what set them off? Mystery solved. Research done by a communications company called SpeakStrong surveyed thousands of people to find out what the most offensive phrases in the English language are. From the boardroom to the family room, the results showed there are words that drive people crazy and can put a real strain on relationships. Here are the top 5 phrases you’ll need to avoid if you want great relationships.

1. “I DON’T CARE.” People often say this when asked for an opinion, but when someone really wants your opinion or wants to work together toward a solution, that phrase is really frustrating. It also makes the person on the receiving end feel as if the situation isn’t important enough for you to care about.

2. Another offensive phrase: “IF YOU SAY SO.” This phrase is sarcasm in the form of insincere agreement. “If you say so” doesn’t mean that what’s being said is true – only that it’s being said. What the person is really saying is, “I’ll go along with what you’re saying, but my heart’s not in it and I don’t totally believe you.”
   

3. Poison phrase #3: “WHATEVER”. It’s a modern version of “if you say so” and it’s a popular term among young people when they want to blow someone off. It is a sarcastic expression intended to communicate “I don’t agree with you, but I’m going to say this to shut the conversation down.”

4. Then there’s “WHAT’S YOUR PROBLEM?” This phrase insinuates that someone must have a problem that causes them to think, feel or act the way they do. It’s totally passive-aggressive. On the surface it expresses concern, but the intent is usually spiteful, suggesting that someone should just “get over” what’s bothering them and that you’re crazy to react that way.
   

5. The top offensive phrase: “SHUT UP.” Simply put – it’s a harsh way to silence someone, and it conveys extreme disrespect.