If a man uses these 10 phrases, he lacks kindness and empathy for others

Avatar by Isabel Cabrera | July 8, 2024, 6:56 pm

Ever thought about what someone’s words say about them?

Well, words can be quite telling. In this article, we’re going to explore some phrases that might show a man isn’t as kind or understanding as you’d want him to be.

Just to be clear – this isn’t about pointing fingers. This is about helping you see what someone might be like from the words they use. If a guy drops any of these ten phrases often, it could be a sign that he’s not the most kind-hearted or empathetic soul around.

So, are you ready to dive in and uncover these phrases? Let’s get started!

1. “I don’t care”

This phrase is a biggie.

When a man frequently says, “I don’t care”, it’s a clear sign he may be lacking in empathy. Sure, we all have moments of indifference, but a consistent lack of concern for others’ feelings or the outcomes of situations is a red flag.

Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others. A person who often uses this phrase may be showing that they don’t have much room for the thoughts and feelings of others in their world.

So, if you hear “I don’t care” a lot, take note. This person might not be the kindest or most understanding guy around.

2. “It’s all about me”

Second on the list is the phrase “It’s all about me”. Now, it’s okay to focus on oneself sometimes – we all need a little self-care.

But if a man is constantly making everything about him, it’s a sign that he may lack kindness and empathy.

Empathy is about being able to put oneself in another person’s shoes, and kindness often involves putting others’ needs before your own. If someone is always prioritizing themselves and their needs, it suggests they may struggle with these traits.

So, if you’re dealing with a guy who can’t stop talking about himself and his needs, be cautious. This could be a sign that he’s not as kind or understanding as you’d hope for.

3. “You’re too sensitive”

Here’s a phrase that personally struck a chord with me once – “You’re too sensitive”. When someone uses this phrase, it can feel like they’re disregarding your feelings or experiences.

I remember a time when I was upset about something, and the guy I was talking to responded with, “You’re too sensitive”. It felt like they were not only dismissing my feelings but also trying to make me feel guilty for having them.

Empathy is about acknowledging and respecting other people’s feelings, not belittling them. If a man frequently uses this phrase, it may suggest he lacks kindness and empathy. 

4. “It’s just a joke”

Ever heard the phrase “It’s just a joke”? This one can be tricky.

Jokes are supposed to be funny and light-hearted, but sometimes they can be hurtful and offensive. If a man frequently uses this phrase to dismiss your feelings or reactions, it may indicate a lack of empathy and kindness.

According to a study, people who frequently use humor that belittles or hurts others often have higher levels of aggression and lower levels of empathy.

This doesn’t mean that everyone who jokes around is unkind, but if the ‘jokes’ are consistently at the expense of others and followed by a dismissive “It’s just a joke”, it might be a warning sign.

5. “You always overreact”

The phrase “You always overreact” can be quite hurtful. It feels like a dismissal of your feelings and reactions, as if they’re not valid or important.

Empathy is about understanding and validating other people’s feelings, not making them feel like they’re overreacting or being dramatic. Kindness is about making people feel heard and valued, not belittled or invalidated.

So if a man often tells you that you’re overreacting, it might be a sign that he lacks empathy and kindness.

Remember, your feelings are valid, and you have every right to express them. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.

6. “I don’t have time for this”

I can remember clearly the first time I heard the phrase, “I don’t have time for this”.

It came from a man who I thought was a friend. I was going through a tough time and needed someone to talk to. But instead of lending an ear, he brushed me off with this curt response.

This phrase, when used repeatedly, can indicate a lack of empathy and kindness. It sends the message that the person’s issues or feelings are not important enough to warrant time or attention.

Empathy is about making time to understand and share in the feelings of others. Kindness often involves sacrificing a bit of our time for someone else’s benefit.

So if a man frequently uses this phrase when you’re in need, it might be a red flag indicating a lack of these qualities.

7. “Get over it”

Let’s cut to the chase – the phrase “Get over it” can be harsh. It’s like a slap in the face when you’re already feeling low. It suggests that your feelings or problems aren’t significant enough to dwell on.

Empathy and kindness aren’t about brushing off someone’s feelings or troubles. They’re about understanding, supporting, and being there for each other. Telling someone to just “get over it” is a far cry from these qualities.

We all have our struggles and we all deal with them at our own pace. If a man frequently uses this phrase, it might suggest he’s not the type who’ll stand by you through thick and thin.

8. “You’re making a big deal out of nothing”

I’ll never forget the time when I was told, “You’re making a big deal out of nothing.” It was one of those moments where I felt small and insignificant. My feelings were brushed aside as if they didn’t matter.

This phrase, particularly when used often, may indicate a lack of kindness and empathy. It shows an inclination to belittle or dismiss the feelings of others instead of trying to understand them.

When someone tells you that you’re making a big deal out of nothing, remember that your feelings are valid. If what you’re feeling is a big deal to you, then it should be taken seriously.

And anyone who consistently uses this phrase might not be the most empathetic or kindhearted person to lean on.

9. “Why can’t you be like everyone else?”

Let’s not sugarcoat it – the phrase “Why can’t you be like everyone else?” is brutal.

It’s a direct assault on your individuality, suggesting that being different is somehow wrong or undesirable.

Empathy and kindness are about accepting and appreciating people for who they are, not trying to mold them into something they’re not. If a man frequently uses this phrase, it could indicate that he lacks these essential traits.

You deserve to be loved and respected for who you are, not compared to others.

10. “I’m right, you’re wrong”

Here’s another gut-punch – “I’m right, you’re wrong”.

This phrase isn’t just unkind and lacking empathy, it’s downright disrespectful. It shuts down any room for discussion or understanding.

True empathy involves recognizing that there can be multiple perspectives to a situation. Kindness means respecting those differences, not bulldozing over them.

If you find a man using the “I’m right, you’re wrong” line often, it might suggest he’s lacking in both empathy and kindness.