When someone’s hiding something—guilt, fear, or a flat-out lie—it often shows up in what they say (and don’t say). The words may sound normal, but the tone, timing, or choice of phrase can give them away.
Here are 10 everyday things people say when they’re hiding something. These phrases might sound innocent, but they often reveal more than intended.
1. “Why would I lie?”
This sounds like a good question, but it’s usually rhetorical and not sincere. Honest people typically don’t feel the need to prove they are.
2. “I don’t remember.”
Sometimes it’s true. But when it’s selective or overly vague, it’s a red flag. It creates just enough distance to avoid accountability.
3. “You’re being paranoid.”
This phrase flips the script. It makes you question your instincts instead of letting them answer your questions.
4. “That’s not what I meant.”
It’s often used to walk something back when they’ve been caught. They’re shifting blame to misinterpretation instead of owning their words.
5. “Don’t worry about it.”
Said quickly, this is a shutdown. It discourages follow-up questions and protects whatever they don’t want you to know.
6. “I already told you.”
This phrase ends the conversation while making you feel forgetful or annoyed. It’s a power move wrapped in fake patience.
7. “You’re making a big deal out of nothing.”
Minimizing is classic deflection. It turns the heat on your reaction instead of their behavior.
8. “It’s complicated.”
Sometimes things are complicated. But other times, this is just a vague stall. It buys time without offering real answers.
Read More: 20 Reasons Second Marriages Tend to Be Happier (And How to Make Yours One of Them)
9. “Let’s not talk about this right now.”
This is a delay tactic, not a promise to revisit the topic. If “later” never comes, they probably never planned on opening up.
Read More: 15 Phrases to Use When Someone Is Trying to Manipulate You
10. “Trust me.”
The more someone demands trust, the more likely they’re trying to secure it without earning it. Trust is shown through actions, not begged for in desperation.
If your gut tells you something feels off, listen to it. These phrases don’t always mean someone’s lying—but when they show up alongside nervous energy, avoidance, or inconsistency, it’s a sign to dig deeper.
Read More: The Science of Lying (And How to Tell a Convincing One)
