Work meetings are often filled with coded language. No one wants to be the person who says, “This is a terrible idea,” so instead, we all dance around our true feelings with phrases that sound professional but scream quiet rebellion.
These are the go-to lines people use when they absolutely cannot stand what’s happening, but still want to keep their jobs. If you hear any of these during your next meeting, know: someone is dying inside.
15. “Let’s circle back on that.”
This is corporate speak for “absolutely not, but I’ll pretend to care later.” It’s the verbal version of sweeping something under the rug and hoping it disappears.
14. “That’s one approach.”
This sounds like agreement, but it’s pure, unfiltered judgment. Translation: “I would never do it that way in a million years.”
13. “Can we take this offline?”
What they really mean is, “I don’t want to waste more of my life discussing this.” This phrase is a meeting escape hatch in disguise.
12. “Interesting…”
The pause after this word says everything. It’s a safe word people use when they’re internally screaming, “What even is this nonsense?”
11. “Just playing devil’s advocate…”
No one who says this is playing devil’s advocate. They disagree but don’t want to fully commit to being the bad guy.
10. “I’m not sure that aligns with our goals.”
This sounds thoughtful and strategic, but it’s just a polite way of saying, “That idea makes no sense.” It’s the adult version of “nah.”
9. “Let’s keep the conversation going.”
This one translates to “Let’s never talk about this again unless forced to.” It’s a masterclass in sounding engaged while shutting things down.
8. “I think we’re overcomplicating this.”
Someone’s patience has officially run out. It’s their way of saying, “This is way more painful than it needs to be.”
7. “That’s above my pay grade.”
A classic way to remove oneself from a situation. It means “This is a disaster, but I’m not dealing with it.”
6. “Can we revisit this with fresh eyes later?”
Code for “This is so bad I need a full mental reset before continuing.” Also, a sneaky way to hit pause indefinitely.
5. “There are a lot of moving pieces here.”
What they’re saying is, “This is a hot mess.” It sounds strategic, but mainly delays action.
4. “Let’s not reinvent the wheel.”
This is a subtle way of saying, “Why are we doing this at all?” It’s the diplomatic version of “hard pass.”
3. “I’ll defer to the group.”
The ultimate “I want nothing to do with this” phrase. It’s a stylish exit from a conversation no one wants to lead.
Read More: 10 Popular Snacks That Contain Ingredients Banned in Other Countries
2. “Let’s park that for now.”
Consider this the junk drawer of meeting phrases. It’s where bad ideas eventually go to die.
Read More: 10 Ways to Insult Your Boss While Sounding Polite
1. “Great discussion, everyone.”
This is the final nail in the coffin. It means “This was painful, but we survived—barely.”
Read More: 15 Phrases to Use When Someone Is Trying to Manipulate You
