Debating with someone who thinks they’re smarter than everyone else is an infuriating experience. They don't listen and won't consider other opinions despite all the facts and evidence proving them wrong. In this situation, remain calm and continue to argue in good faith; most people who don’t listen are trying to produce a reaction. Here are 18 phrases you can use to shut someone up who thinks they’re cleverer than you.
That's an Interesting Perspective
Telling someone their perspective is interesting acknowledges their point while implying it is not the only valid opinion. People who think they are cleverer than everyone else don't want to be told they are wrong; using this phrase is saying it’s one of many other perspectives.
Can You Explain That Further
Listening to someone speak confidently on a subject they know little about is frustrating. Asking them to elaborate on the facts of the argument exposes them, and rather than continue, they will be quiet.
Let's Agree to Disagree
When having an argument or debate, most people want to win; it’s an unfortunate reality of the art of speech and rhetoric. Saying both should agree to disagree acknowledges the other person’s argument while politely recognizing it is circular and a waste of time.
Where Did You Get That Information
Always question where someone arguing with you found their information. Many online sources outside of academia or official websites are questionable, and their confidence arises from the authority with which these sources speak. It may not be obvious, but they may doubt the source and need someone else to confirm it.
I See Your Point, but Have You Considered
Acknowledging a point without conceding the argument creates a friendlier exchange. Introducing a new viewpoint is easy as they’ll have an obligation to listen. People who think they are cleverer than everyone else are often raised in competitive environments and are not used to debating in good faith.
That's Not Entirely Accurate
Telling some they are outright wrong leads to an argument that will get out of hand. Using softer words gives breathing space to admit they are wrong. They will also want to hear what you have to say and for you to explain their inaccuracies.
Let's Look at the Facts
Looking at the facts opens an opportunity to put your viewpoint across and use facts to back up the argument. The facts must be reputable, or you are doing the same and not arguing in good faith. When shown facts, people have to reconsider their views and will back down.
I'm Not Convinced
Saying you’re not convinced shows openness to be persuaded but still affirming you disagree; it’s friendlier, and the discussion can continue. Listening is vital, whether you agree or not; you can’t argue back if you aren't taking in what is said.
Do You Have Evidence to Support That
Asking for evidence to support claims will shut down anyone who doesn’t have proof of their claims. If someone makes wild claims, they usually have no evidence in support. They’re unlikely to admit they are wrong, but they will probably stop talking.
Let's Consult an Expert on This
People who think they’re cleverer than everyone else fear experts more than anyone. An expert has the authority to shut down any unproven claims they make and will show them up for being full of hot air. They will probably not wait for someone knowledgeable to listen out of embarrassment.
Let's Focus on the Data
Data exposes flaws in arguments, and it’s easy to access on research and academic websites. They may not want to look at the data, but it will at least shut them up, even if they don’t acknowledge they are wrong.
I Respectfully Disagree
Adding respect to a rebuttal will put a person in an uncomfortable position as they are usually not debating respectfully. Going down to their level is what they want, so disagree respectfully and move on; they won’t like it but won’t keep arguing.
What About This Counterexample
Listen to their argument and then provide a counterexample. If you listen first, they owe you the opportunity to speak and give your argument. Those who think they’re clever don’t expect others to have well-reasoned, logical answers; they will be surprised and won’t argue back if they don’t believe they can win.
That's a Common Misconception
Saying a point is a common misconception is a polite way of rebutting someone. You are telling them they are not the only ones who are wrong and most people think the way they do. They won’t like the comparison with others and will shut up because they need a period of self-reflection.
Can We Stay on Topic
Bad faith debaters move away from the main topic to something irrelevant where they are more knowledgeable. It is a skill that many don’t notice until it is too late, so if you feel an argument is drifting away, politely request to move back to the original one. If they want to debate, they will be happy to do so; if not, they’ll walk away.
Let's Break This Down
Break an argument down and expose the logical fallacies. Learning the long list of logical fallacies is a brilliant way to shut anyone down who believes they are cleverer than they are. Logic is the foundation of language; to argue against it demonstrates extreme ignorance.
Have You Thought About the Consequences
A person who believes they are cleverer than they are is prone to extreme claims and the belief they think outside the box. When they make these claims, ask them to consider the real-world consequences; if they have a conscience, they will backtrack and reconsider their views.
I'm Open to Other Opinions
Stating you are open to other opinions lets them know you don’t have the same viewpoint, but you will hear alternative points of view. If they have a genuine interest in debate, they’ll want to explore the argument and not just end it in a tantrum.
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