13 Clever Things to Say Next Time Someone is Rude to You
We’ve all encountered a rude person at some point in our lives. Rude people are an unfortunate fact of life. Sometimes their comments shock us, and we don’t have an appropriate reply ready. Other times we wanna punch them in the throat. Don’t do that. Next time you are verbally attacked by a rude person, try using any one of these brilliant responses that will help you regain control, stand up for yourself, and even have a laugh in the process.
At the very least, it may just shut them up.
Do You Need a Hug
Sometimes, rude people just need someone to be kind to them and offer them compassion. Hurt people hurt people, but healed people can also heal people. Try offering them a hug first and see how that goes!
Looks Like You’re Having a Bad Day
Tell them you’re sorry they’re having a bad day and that you hope things get better for them soon. It may calm them down, or it may make them angrier—only one way to find out. It’ll definitely give them food for thought.
Did Someone Pee in Your Cornflakes This Morning
While this may not calm them down, it certainly might make them giggle a bit and realize they were, in fact, being rude. If you’re lucky, they may even apologize!
Sorry Do I Know You
This response obviously works best on strangers, but it will surprise them because it’s not the reaction they are expecting. Generally, they’re looking for a fight. Not a new friend.
You Must Be a Bundle of Joy to Be Around
This response puts the focus back on the person’s negativity and highlights the absurdity of their behavior. It may even catch them off guard and make them laugh a little. Well, here’s to hoping.
Come Back When You’re Nicer
Let them know that you will not continue the conversation if they’re mean or rude to you, and they can come back and talk when they’re in a better mood. This oughta shut them up.
Awe That Wasn’t Very Nice
You can follow that up with, “Why would you talk to me like that? Have I done something to hurt you or make you angry? Let’s try this again.” It’s a softer approach that will show empathy on your part and may calm them down.
Sorry I’m Allergic to Negativity
This response is lighthearted and playful but still gets the point across that you won’t tolerate negativity or hostility. It may shut them up or provoke them to tell you where to go. Either way, they got the point.
I Can Give You the Number of a Great Therapist
Find out if they were bullied as a child, which is why they are being a bully and a jerk now. Maybe they need therapy or some inner child healing exercises. They may not like this response but it will definitely make them think twice about being rude to you again.
Today is Not the Day, And I’m Not the One
Shut ’em down before they even begin. You gotta stop this bully in their tracks before they even think of spewing. It’s also called a boundary. Show them you won’t put up with their crap. Period. Ever.
Sorry I’m Too Happy Today to Listen to You
This response will most likely make them laugh, but if it doesn’t, and you walk away, it will definitely leave them with a stunned look on their face like, “What the heck just happened”? Priceless, I say.
I Don’t Think You Know Who You’re Talking To
Straight up, ask them if they have any idea who they’re talking to. Make it sound like you’re a big deal. Well, because you are. We all are, and no one deserves to be spoken to rudely, ever. This will surely shut them up.
I Hope You Have the Day You Deserve
My favourite response in the whole wide world. This will flat-out shut them up. Make sure you say it with a huge smile on your face and wave goodbye as you walk away.
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