Some people walk into a room and immediately make it about them. They dominate conversations, correct everyone, and act like they have life figured out—louder and smarter than the rest of us. But underneath all that confidence is often deep insecurity dressed as certainty.
You don’t have to match their arrogance to cut through it. Sometimes, all it takes is one calm, clever phrase to stop them in their tracks. These lines don’t insult—they disarm. And they remind arrogant people that they’re not the only authority in the room.
1. “That’s One Way To Look At It.”
“That’s one way to look at it” is an effective phrase that acknowledges another person’s viewpoint without fully endorsing it, helping to neutralize power dynamics and prevent conflict. It communicates that while their perspective is valid, it is not the only one worth considering.
As explained by Indeed in their guide on communication techniques, using language that validates others’ perspectives without confrontation is a key strategy for effective workplace communication. Such phrases help maintain respectful dialogue and encourage openness to different viewpoints, essential for collaboration and conflict resolution.
2. “What Makes You So Sure?”
Arrogant people thrive on assumptions. This question throws the spotlight back on their logic—or lack thereof. It forces them to explain their thinking, which often reveals the cracks.
You’re not attacking—you’re inviting clarity. And in doing so, you make them question the confidence they’re projecting. Curiosity can be the sharpest kind of accountability.
3. “I’ve Heard That Explained Differently.”
The phrase “I’ve heard that explained differently” is a tactful way to introduce doubt without confrontation, gently reminding the other person that there are alternative, credible perspectives beyond their current view.
Experts in negotiation emphasize the importance of separating people from the problem and focusing on interests rather than positions, which this phrase exemplifies by opening space for different viewpoints to be considered. The Harvard Method of negotiation on how to achieve a win-win situation highlights that understanding and acknowledging the other party’s interests and perspectives can lead to more collaborative and effective outcomes.
4. “Is That Your Opinion Or A Fact?”
When someone speaks with authority on something they don’t know, this question draws a line. It challenges their tone, not their ego. And it exposes whether they’re stating evidence or just inflating themselves.
It also gives you room to redirect the conversation back to shared ground. Arrogant people often blur that line. This phrase puts it right back in focus.
5. “You Seem Invested In Being Right.”
The phrase “You seem invested in being right” serves as a tactful way to address someone’s ego without directly confronting their argument. It subtly shifts the focus from the content of the discussion to the motivation behind their insistence, encouraging self-awareness and reducing defensiveness.
Effective communication experts emphasize the importance of understanding the emotions and intentions behind what people say to foster better interactions. According to HelpGuide on Effective Communication, setting aside judgment and focusing on the underlying feelings or motivations can lead to more meaningful connections and reduce conflict.
6. “That’s Not My Experience.”
The phrase “That’s not my experience” is an effective way to express a differing perspective without provoking conflict. It acknowledges that your viewpoint is personal and valid, signaling that you are not disputing to win an argument but simply sharing your reality. This approach helps maintain calm and respect in conversations, allowing space for multiple truths without escalating tension.
As detailed in research on carers’ communication strategies published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), such expressions create a space for shared understanding while respecting differences. Participants in a study noted that saying “that’s not my experience” helped them communicate their unique perspectives without dismissing others, fostering connection rather than conflict.
7. “Can You Say That Without Dismissing Everyone Else?”
The phrase “Can you say that without dismissing everyone else?” is an effective way to address someone who dominates a conversation by invalidating others’ opinions. It challenges their tone rather than the content of their argument, inviting them to re-engage with respect and consideration.
According to communication experts at Pumble, invalidating or dismissing others’ perspectives is one of the worst communication habits in professional settings because it erodes trust, disempowers colleagues, and creates unnecessary resentment. They recommend addressing such behavior calmly and proactively to foster a positive and psychologically safe environment where everyone feels heard and valued.d
8. “You’re Very Confident. Have You Considered…?”
This works especially well when paired with a gentle alternative perspective. It acknowledges their self-assurance while opening the door for nuance. And it reframes the moment as a conversation, not a lecture.
It’s not sarcasm—it’s strategic redirection. Arrogance tends to buckle when faced with calm, grounded counterpoints. This phrase gives you room to speak your own.
9. “Sometimes Two Things Can Be Right At The Same Time.”
This one stings because it’s fair. It honors their intellect while calling out their ego. It’s a reminder that other truths can exist alongside theirs.
It’s an emotional speed bump for someone who’s used to steamrolling dialogue. And it often stops the arrogance without making you the bad guy.
10. “Who Told You That?”
This question subtly calls into question their source of truth. If they fumble or dodge, you know they’re bluffing. If they answer, you’ve still forced them to slow down.
It breaks their rhythm. Arrogance often thrives on momentum. This phrase interrupts that with a touch of skepticism.
11. “You Sound Like You’ve Never Been Wrong Before.”
It’s cheeky. It’s observational. And it’s just sarcastic enough to land.
This line doesn’t need a follow-up. The silence afterward is the impact. It reminds them that humility isn’t optional—it’s overdue.
12. “Let’s Agree You’re Not The Only Expert Here.”
This one reclaims power in rooms where someone thinks they own the mic. It’s a boundary disguised as balance. And it makes space for other voices—including yours.
Arrogant people hate sharing the floor. But this phrase doesn’t ask—it asserts. It says, This isn’t your stage—it’s a circle.
13. “That’s A Strong Take—But I’m Going To Disagree?”
This flips the spotlight. It challenges them to defend their view from another angle. And it reveals how flexible or rigid they are.
If they engage thoughtfully, great. If they scoff or dismiss, they expose themselves. Either way, you hold the mirror.
14. “It’s Okay Not To Know Everything.”
This phrase lands hardest when said with calm sincerity, not sarcasm. It disarms the need to perform and invites something more honest. Most arrogance is a cover for insecurity.
This line permits us to be human. And sometimes, that’s the most humbling thing you can offer.
15. “Confidence Looks Better When It Makes Room for Other People.”
It’s part compliment, part challenge—and completely unarguable. It reframes the moment from ego-driven to connection-driven. And it leaves the door open for them to shift, rather than shut down.
Arrogant people often just want to be seen. This phrase lets them be seen—and gently reminded that generosity is part of real confidence.
Natasha is a seasoned lifestyle journalist and editor based in New York City. Originally from Sydney, during a stellar two-decade career, she has reported on the latest lifestyle news and trends for major media brands including Elle and Grazia.
