Let’s be honest—we all have strong opinions.

Whether it’s about the latest reality TV show, pineapple on pizza, or even aliens, we have thoughts on everything.

But when it comes to sharing these opinions, we often hold back.

Why?

Because we’re afraid of criticism, judgment, or causing a stir on social media.

Instead of confidently sharing our views, we end up hiding behind words like ‘guess’ and ‘not sure,’and other vague phrases that make us sound unsure.

In this article, we’ll highlight 8 phrases that people often use when they’re hesitant to share their opinions.

So get ready—understanding these phrases is your first step toward stepping out of the shadows and owning your opinions with confidence.

1) “I mean, I could be wrong, but…”

In the world of tentative phrases, this one often tops the list.

It’s a common caveat we use when we’re not fully confident in expressing our opinions.

You see, the phrase “I could be wrong” immediately indicates a lack of conviction in one’s stance.

It’s a subtle way of saying, “I have an opinion, but I’m not confident enough to stand by it firmly”.

And it’s not just about lack of confidence.

This phrase often stems from fear—fear of being wrong, fear of facing opposition, or fear of causing conflict.

It’s a safety net we unconsciously deploy to cushion the potential fall-out of expressing a possibly unpopular or contested opinion.

2) “Just my two cents…”

Let’s talk about the concept of minimizing language.

Ever heard of it?

Minimizing language is exactly what it sounds like—it’s when we use words or phrases that reduce the impact or importance of what we’re saying.

A classic example? The phrase “just my two cents.”

This phrase is an interesting one.

On one hand, it’s often used to signal humility, suggesting that our opinion is simply a small contribution to the discussion.

But here’s the catch…

The underlying message it sends is that our opinion isn’t very valuable or important.

It’s like we’re saying our thoughts are worth just two measly cents in a world where opinions can be worth their weight in gold.

William Shakespeare’s insight captures this well: “To be, or not to be: that is the question.”

Embracing our contributions with confidence, and not minimizing them, helps us recognize their true value in any discussion.

3) “Does that make sense?”

Following on from our discussion about minimizing language, there’s another phrase that often sneaks into our vocabulary when we’re not fully confident in expressing our opinions.

The phrase, “…does that make sense?”, can seem quite innocent at first glance.

It can even seem courteous, as if we’re checking in to ensure the listener is following our train of thought.

When used excessively, this phrase can actually undermine our confidence.

It gives off an impression that we’re unsure of the clarity or validity of our own thoughts.

Instead of asserting our opinion confidently, we end up seeking validation or approval from others.

This is not to say that checking in with your listener is a bad thing.

It’s just that overusing phrases, like “…does that make sense?”, can subtly erode your confidence in voicing your opinions.

4) “Sorry, but…”

I think we’ve all been guilty of this one at some point.

Starting a sentence with “Sorry, but…” when we’re about to express an opinion.

It’s like we’re apologizing for having a viewpoint that might differ from someone else’s.

But why should we ever feel the need to apologize for that?

Our opinions are part of what makes us unique—they reflect our experiences, values, and perspectives.

And that’s something to be proud of, not something to apologize for.

Eleanor Roosevelt‘s words resonate deeply: “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Let’s catch ourselves the next time we start a sentence with “Sorry, but…”.

Let’s replace it with something more assertive and unapologetic.

After all, we have every right to express our thoughts and opinions confidently.

5) “I guess…”

“I guess” is often used when we’re uncertain, ambivalent, or reluctant to fully commit to our viewpoint.

Here are a few examples of how it might slip into our conversations:

• “I guess I prefer the blue one.”
• “I guess that could work.”
• “I guess you’re right.”

By starting your sentences with “I guess”, you instantly soften your stance and make your opinion sound less assertive.

Noticing this can be a key step towards expressing your opinions more confidently.

Try replacing “I guess” with “I believe” or “I think” to give your viewpoints the strength they deserve.

6) “This might be a stupid question, but…”

There’s no such thing as a stupid question.

Questions are how we learn, grow, and engage with the world around us.

When we preface our questions with “This might be a stupid question, but…”, we’re essentially apologizing for wanting to learn or clarify something.

We’re undermining our own curiosity and need for understanding.

And it’s time we stop doing that.

Recognizing when we’re putting ourselves down with phrases like this is key to building confidence in expressing our opinions and asking questions.

The words of Albert Einstein remind us, “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”

Every question is a stepping stone to knowledge and deeper understanding.

7) “I don’t know if you’ll agree, but…”

Imagine you’re in a meeting at work.

You have a brilliant idea that you believe could solve a pressing problem.

You’re about to voice your opinion, but then you start your sentence with “I don’t know if you’ll agree, but…”

Does this sound familiar?

By doing so, you’re already assuming disagreement or opposition before you’ve even expressed your thought.

This phrase reflects the fear of confrontation or disagreement and can undermine your confidence in expressing your opinion.

While it’s perfectly normal to anticipate different viewpoints, prefacing your thoughts with doubt can make your opinion sound less assertive or valuable.

8) “I’m not sure, but…”

Within the sphere of self-expression, confidence is key—and phrases can be a window into how confident we feel.

One phrase that often crops up when someone is struggling to express their opinions confidently is “I’m not sure, but…”.

This phrase, in itself, isn’t inherently bad—in fact, it can be a sign of humility or thoughtfulness.

But when it’s overused, it can reflect a lack of self-assuredness in expressing opinions.

Why does this happen?

It’s a form of hedging—a way to cushion the impact if our opinion isn’t well received or if we’re concerned about being incorrect.

As Maya Angelou wisely observed, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”

Expressing your opinions confidently requires that same courage, allowing you to stand firmly by your thoughts without the need for constant disclaimers.

Final thoughts

Your opinions matter.

They’re a reflection of your unique experiences and insights, and that makes them valuable.

It’s time we start treating them that way.

Start by noticing when you’re using these phrases, pay attention to how they make you feel.

Do they empower you or diminish you?

Once you’re aware of these patterns, you can begin to shift them.

Try replacing these phrases with more assertive language; practice voicing your opinions without apology or disclaimer.

It may feel uncomfortable at first, but with time and persistence, it will become second nature.

This is a journey.

Change takes time, and that’s okay; the crucial thing is to keep moving forward, one confident statement at a time.

You have a voice—it’s time to let it be heard.