1
“You look tired.”
What you're saying is they look unappealing or grouchy. Try saying "Is everything okay?" if you're genuinely worried about their well being.
9 Phrases Smart People NEVER Use
These well meaning comments get easily lost in translation and should be on everyone's DON'T list! Source: "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Dr. Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
2
“Wow, you’ve lost a ton of weight!”
This suggests they used to look fat/unattractive. Try replacing it with "You look fantastic!"
3
"You were too good for her anyway.”
We know you want to help your friend get over a breakup, but questioning their taste and judgement for getting into it in the first place is not the way to go. Try "Their loss!" instead.
4
“You always…” or “You never…”
These phrases make people defensive and shut out your message
5
"You look great for your age.”
No need for the "for your" qualifier, "you look great" will do just fine!
6
As I said before...
This phrase makes you sound condescending and as if you're insulted you have to repeat yourself.
7
Good luck.
This phrase implies that they need luck to succeed, instead try a positive "I know you have what it takes!"
8
“It’s up to you.” or “Whatever you want.”
Your opinion matters to whoever posed the question, so by blowing the decision off it's like you're rejecting them too. Try “I don’t have a strong opinion either way, but a couple things to consider are…” next time.
9
“Well at least I’ve never ___.”
You're probably passive aggressively reminding your friend of their mistake rather than owning up to yours. Take responsibility with a simple "I'm sorry" so you can continue to work through your issues.