The way you speak can make or break your career or your dating life. That's why you need to be careful with the words you choose to use. If you pick the wrong ones, you could end up sounding ridiculous. You don't want that to happen, which is why you should avoid using these words that can make you sound uneducated:
1. Irregardless
This isn't an actual word, which is why you should delete it from your vocabulary. The word you're looking for is simply "regardless."
2. Like
You don't want to throw "like" into every other sentence. It's a commonly used filler word that stops you from creating awkward pauses, but you have to learn to get comfortable speaking without it.
3. Literally
Most of the time, people use this word incorrectly. If you say that you literally died, you're lying. Literally means that something actually happened.
4. At
It's okay to use this word in the middle of a sentence, but you don't want to use it at the end of a sentence. It's improper grammar.
5. (cursing)
There's nothing wrong with tossing a few curse words into conversations with friends. However, if you're at work, you don't want to use foul language, because some people will accuse you of sounding uneducated.
6. Umm
This is another filler word that most people fall back on. However, you need to stop using it. It's okay to pause while you think of your next thought.
7. Ironic
Most people think they're using this word correctly, but they aren't. It actually means "happening in the opposite way to what is expected, and typically causing wry amusement because of this."
8. Very
Don't say that you're "very happy." Say that you're elated. Don't say that you're "very sad." Say that you're devastated.
9. Ain’t
This is slang. You shouldn't be using it when you want to sound intelligent.
10. Conversate
This isn't actually a word. You're either looking for "conversation" or "converse."
11. Nauseous
If you're feeling sick, the word you're looking for is "nauseated." Nauseous means that something is causing nausea.
12. Ginormous
This isn't a real word. If you want to state that something is huge, use "humongous" instead.
13. Gay
There are certain words you don't have any reason to use. "Gay" and "retarded" shouldn't be considered insults.
14. Inflammable
Since "flammable" means something can easily be set on fire, you might think that "inflammable" means the opposite. However, that's not the case. "Inflammable" also means it can easily be set on fire, so be careful when you use the word.
15. Misunderestimate
Even though one of our presidents used this word, it doesn't mean it makes any sense. You're probably trying to say "underestimate." You don't need the "mis" in front of it.
16. Omg
You don't want to use "omg" or "wtf" in an email. You don't want to say the letters aloud, either.
17. Supposably
You're probably trying to say the word "supposedly." Swap out that "b" for a "d."
The way you speak can change the way others view you, which is why you need to be careful. What other words do you try to refrain from using?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I avoid certain words to sound more intelligent?
- Using clearer, more precise words helps you communicate effectively and be taken more seriously.
- What are some common words to avoid for a smarter impression?
- Words like 'very,' 'like,' and 'thing' can weaken your message and make you sound less confident.
- Can replacing filler words improve my speech?
- Yes, eliminating fillers like 'um' and 'you know' makes you sound more polished and self-assured.
- How does avoiding slang affect how smart I sound?
- Minimizing slang and casual expressions helps you appear more professional and articulate.
- Is it bad to use contractions in formal conversations?
- Using full forms rather than contractions tends to sound more formal and intelligent in professional settings.
- Are there alternatives to overused words that sound smarter?
- Absolutely! For example, swap 'big' for 'significant' or 'important' to elevate your language.
- Does tone matter as much as word choice?
- Yes, a confident, clear tone paired with appropriate vocabulary enhances your intelligent image.
- How can I practice using better vocabulary daily?
- Try reading more quality articles and replacing simple words with richer alternatives in your writing and speech.
- Will avoiding these words make me sound pretentious?
- Not at all—as long as your language feels natural and sincere, it will come across as thoughtful rather than showy.
- Can avoiding certain words help in job interviews?
- Definitely! Clear and precise language can make a stronger, more professional impression on employers.