I was at a family gathering not too long ago when I noticed someone getting teased for saying, “I’m not sure about that.”

Everyone paused, and the mood shifted to mild confusion.

In that moment, I could see the discomfort on their face, yet I also recognized the quiet confidence behind their words.

It reminded me that many statements we label as “awkward” actually show humility, clarity, and genuine self-awareness.

I’d love to share some of those phrases with you.

They might seem a bit stiff in everyday conversation, but there’s solid reasoning behind each one.

Along the way, I’ll mention a few insights from psychology and my own experiences.

My hope is that you leave this page with a refreshed perspective on what real intelligence can look like in social settings.

1. “I don’t know”

Some people can’t stand saying this, because it feels like an admission of failure.

In reality, it’s often a sign of self-assurance.

According to Very Well Mind, the ability to acknowledge not having all the answers correlates with open-mindedness and a willingness to learn.

Saying “I don’t know” can diffuse tension and show that you respect the other person’s expertise.

I used to avoid these words at all costs, convinced I would look incompetent.

Now, I’ve found that using them strategically signals that I’m ready to learn or collaborate.

It can spark curiosity and invite deeper conversation.

2. “Let me think about that”

Sometimes a quick answer isn’t the best answer.

“Let me think about that” can make you sound hesitant, but in truth, it reveals thorough processing.

You’re not interested in rushing a response that might be incomplete.

Psychology Today mentions that people who take a pause before speaking can handle complex situations with greater calm.

Consider how often we blurt out half-formed ideas and regret it later.

Slowing down isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength that prevents misunderstandings and fosters depth.

3. “Could you clarify what you mean?”

Asking for clarity can feel like admitting you weren’t paying attention, but that’s rarely the case.

In many cultures, there’s a tendency to nod along, even when we don’t fully grasp the details.

Yet genuine intelligence involves seeking precise information.

I remember reading Brené Brown’s take on curiosity, where she suggests that simply nodding along is a shortcut to disconnection.

Asking for clarity helps you engage with the speaker more deeply.

It also saves everyone from wasted time and potentially awkward misinterpretations.

4. “I need a moment of silence”

This request can feel downright odd in the middle of a group discussion.

But there’s a growing acceptance for short silent breaks, especially in settings where creative thinking is key.

A piece from Harvard Business Review reported that structured pauses can lead to more balanced conversations and stronger decision-making.

When I first started practicing yoga, I learned the value of intentional stillness.

If we never pause, we end up jumping to conclusions.

Intentionally asking for a minute of quiet might surprise others, but it’s often the reset everyone needs.

5. “Let’s agree to disagree”

Many of us see this line as a polite way to cut off a debate.

On the surface, it can sound dismissive or even rude.

In truth, it often suggests an advanced level of emotional intelligence.

Recognizing that someone else may hold a different view—without the urge to dominate or control—requires humility and self-awareness.

It’s more than a conversation-ender; it’s a graceful way to maintain harmony while respecting individual perspectives.

6. “I’m feeling a bit overstimulated”

This one can sound overly personal or “sensitive,” especially in cultures that prize constant busyness.

Yet stating that you’re overstimulated is a sign of good self-regulation.

In my case, practicing meditation helped me recognize my limits.

Before, I’d power through gatherings or meetings, only to burn out later.

Admitting you need a break or a quieter space isn’t a flaw.

It’s a strategy for sustaining your energy and presence.

7. “I prefer not to multitask”

Some people hear this and think, “That’s not practical in today’s world.”

We live in a culture that rewards multitasking, but research shows it can negatively impact our relationships and focus.

Multitasking often leads to half-hearted outcomes.

Saying you’d rather focus on one thing at a time isn’t laziness—it’s a sign that you value quality.

It might sound rigid, yet it’s rooted in a desire to do things thoughtfully.

8. “I changed my mind”

Admitting you’ve changed your mind can seem indecisive or flip-floppy.

But shifting an opinion after new evidence emerges is a hallmark of critical thinking.

Mark Manson once wrote that growth requires letting go of beliefs that no longer align with who we are becoming.

I’ve experienced this in my journey toward minimalism.

I used to collect every trinket and novelty item, thinking they brought me joy.

Then I realized they mainly cluttered my space and mind.

Owning up to that shift felt awkward at first.

Now, it feels like a natural step toward living more intentionally.

9. “I apologize for my mistake”

Apologizing might come across as a weakness in environments where confidence is confused with never admitting faults.

But genuine apologies pave the way for healing and transparency.

People who can effectively own their mistakes build higher levels of trust in professional and personal relationships.

There’s a subtle but powerful difference between “I’m sorry you feel that way” and “I’m sorry for what I did.”

The second takes true accountability.

That level of sincerity shows more than just kindness—it shows emotional intelligence.

10. “I need to do more research”

This sounds odd in everyday conversation, especially when people expect quick opinions.

Yet it’s refreshing to hear someone say they aren’t ready to conclude.

It implies intellectual honesty and a willingness to dig deeper.

Before we finish, there’s one more thing I need to address about this phrase.

It can be misused as an excuse to avoid giving any opinion at all.

That’s why I find it so important to follow up with actual research if you commit to doing so.

Authenticity lies in following through, not simply pushing off decisions.

Here’s a quick rundown of things I keep in mind when I say I’ll “do more research”—and yes, these habits stem from my own practice of mindfulness:

• Take a moment to write down the question or topic so you don’t forget.

• Allocate specific time to revisit the topic.

• Reflect on what you learned and how it might impact your perspective.

This approach keeps me from using “research” as a filler line and helps me grow in the process.

Final thoughts

Small phrases can carry a lot of weight.

They might feel out of place in casual chit-chat, but they often reflect an intelligent, introspective mindset that benefits everyone in the long run.

My own journey has shown me that these expressions aren’t about perfection.

They’re about authenticity and a willingness to look beneath the surface of social norms.

If you find yourself hesitating to say what you really mean, take a moment to consider the value hidden in an “awkward” phrase.

Sometimes, that pause is exactly where genuine wisdom resides.