Whether it’s at the office, at a dinner party, or even on a group chat, most of us eventually cross paths with that person. You know the type—overly sure of themselves, loudly dismissive of others, always circling the conversation back to their own brilliance. Arrogance isn’t always loud or obvious either; sometimes, it shows up in passive-aggressive comments, constant interruptions, or unsolicited advice.
But rather than exploding with frustration or stewing in silence, there’s a more strategic route you can take. Psychology suggests that when you’re armed with just the right words—delivered calmly—you can subtly but effectively remind the arrogant person that they’re not the center of the universe.
Below are eight polished and pointed phrases that act like verbal judo: non-confrontational, clever, and powerful enough to redirect arrogance without igniting a war. Each phrase is backed by psychological insights and a bit of real-world wisdom. Let’s unpack them.
1. “Your confidence in your abilities is noted.”
Think of this as the conversational equivalent of a raised eyebrow. It’s polite, but laced with just enough dryness to communicate your true thoughts. Delivered in a calm, matter-of-fact tone, it acknowledges the person’s self-assuredness without validating their behavior or opinion.
This is particularly effective when someone is steamrolling a conversation or making unfounded claims. According to Dr. Alex Lickerman, how we say something (tone, body language, timing) can carry more weight than the actual words. In this case, you’re using tone to say, “I hear you… but no thanks.”
Example:
When a coworker says, “Honestly, I don’t even need the team on this project—I could probably do it in half the time,” your response:
“Your confidence in your abilities is noted.”
It lands with a subtle thud that says, “Let’s get real.”
Read more: 9 Phrases That Reveal a Victim Mentality, According to Psychologists
2. “Let’s focus on the task at hand.”
This is a phrase every group leader, project manager, and even parent should have in their back pocket. It’s respectful, redirecting, and doesn’t leave room for argument. Arrogant individuals often derail discussions by chasing personal tangents or flexing irrelevant knowledge. This simple phrase brings the spotlight back to what matters.
Studies in workplace communication show that polite redirection often yields better outcomes than direct confrontation. By keeping things on topic, you not only manage the arrogant person but also protect the group’s productivity.
Example:
During a meeting, someone starts listing their past achievements instead of addressing the current problem. Rather than rolling your eyes or muttering under your breath, you say:
“Let’s focus on the task at hand.”
This keeps the momentum—and the peace.
3. “That’s fascinating! Moving on…”
Few things feel more satisfying than this two-part combo: a compliment followed by a conversation-closer. The first half flatters their ego, and the second half sends a gentle signal that the discussion has other places to go.
This approach leans into the psychology of ego management. You’re giving the arrogant person just enough validation to prevent a meltdown, but not enough to let them dominate the interaction.
Example:
If someone is explaining—at length—how they singlehandedly solved a crisis ten years ago, try:
“That’s fascinating! Moving on…”
You’ve heard them out, now it’s time to refocus.
4. “Is that relevant to the conversation?”
This one walks a tighter line. It’s a bit more direct but still framed as a question, giving the arrogant individual a chance to reflect—or squirm. You’re not accusing them of being off-topic; you’re inviting them to explain why their comment matters. (Spoiler: It usually doesn’t.)
Psychologists say that arrogance often stems from insecurity masked as overconfidence. People who boast or dominate discussions may be seeking control or approval. Interrupting this behavior with a reality check can snap them out of it—without you appearing combative.
Example:
They say, “Back when I led a team of 40 people in Dubai…”
You ask, with a calm, curious tone:
“Is that relevant to the conversation?”
It’s a reset disguised as a question.
5. “Well, I value your perspective.”
On the surface, this phrase looks sweet and open-minded—but the pause before “I value your perspective” gives it just enough edge. When delivered with a calm or slightly amused expression, it’s a subtle way of saying, “Thanks for your input, but we’re moving along now.”
Public speaking expert John Zimmer notes that pauses in conversation often emphasize intent. Adding that brief “well…” signals reflection, and depending on your tone, it can come across as either genuine or delightfully sarcastic.
Example:
An arrogant friend is dominating the conversation with a rant about how no one else “gets it.” You respond:
“Well… I value your perspective.”
That gentle pause carries all the meaning you need.
Read more: Psychologists Say These 14 Behaviors Often Reveal a Toxic Personality
6. “It’s okay to not know everything.”
This one is a masterstroke. It sounds kind, even nurturing—but to the arrogant listener, it’s a clever twist of the knife. You’re not insulting them directly; you’re reminding them, in the most gracious way possible, that nobody’s perfect—and they’re no exception.
It works particularly well in situations where someone is pretending to be an expert but clearly doesn’t have the facts. The idea isn’t to shame them but to encourage humility. If they catch the hint, great. If not, at least you’ve voiced the unspoken truth.
Example:
During a discussion, someone is clearly bluffing their way through a topic. You smile and say:
“It’s okay to not know everything.”
It’s gentle, but oof—it lands hard.
7. “That’s one way to look at it.”
This phrase is deliciously passive-aggressive. It gives the illusion of agreement while actually dismissing what the other person just said. You’re not arguing, you’re just… acknowledging there are other ways of thinking.
Research shows that subtle displays of contempt—such as eye rolls or dry statements—can shift social power dynamics, increasing your status while reducing the perceived credibility of the other person. It’s all about tone and timing.
Example:
They declare, “Well, clearly, the only logical conclusion is that I’m right.”
You reply, evenly:
“That’s one way to look at it.”
Mic. Dropped.
8. “Let’s hear what other people have to say.”
This phrase is a team-player’s secret weapon. Arrogant people often try to control the floor, especially in group settings. When you say this, you’re not just calling out their behavior—you’re making space for others who may have been steamrolled.
Researcher Evan Apfelbaum from Boston University found that diverse opinions improve decision-making and lower the risk of groupthink. So by inviting others into the conversation, you’re actually strengthening the group—not just deflating an inflated ego.
Example:
In a team meeting where one person won’t stop talking:
“Let’s hear what other people have to say.”
It’s diplomatic and empowering to everyone else in the room.
Read nore: Don’t Be Fooled: These 15 Habits Reveal a Fake Nice Person
Final Thoughts: Be Kind, But Don’t Be a Doormat
You don’t have to shout, argue, or stoop to an arrogant person’s level to make a point. The phrases above act like social soft power—they don’t humiliate, but they do challenge the behavior in a composed, clever way.
The next time someone tries to take over the conversation or talk down to you, remember: you have tools. You can be assertive without being aggressive. And best of all, you can say what needs to be said… while still smiling.
Image: Freepik.
