16 Subtle Phrases Liars Rely On When They’re Hiding the Truth
Lying is part of human nature, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to detect. Most lies aren’t blatant—they’re hidden in small, subtle phrases that seem innocent at first glance.
These words often reflect a liar’s attempt to deflect suspicion, avoid details, or manipulate the conversation. Learning to recognize these common phrases can help you spot dishonesty in everyday interactions.
Here are 16 phrases people often say when they’re lying and what they really mean.
1. “I swear I didn’t do it.”
Overemphasizing their innocence often indicates guilt. Instead of offering evidence or a calm explanation, they rely on dramatic statements to convince you.
2. “Why would I lie about that?”
This phrase flips the blame onto you for even questioning them. It’s a tactic to make you feel guilty and stop probing further.
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
3. “Honestly, I’m telling you the truth.”
The overuse of “honestly” can be a red flag. People telling the truth rarely need to emphasize it—they just state the facts.
4. “I don’t remember doing that.”
Claiming forgetfulness helps a liar avoid taking responsibility. It’s a way to dodge accusations without outright denial.
5. “You’re being paranoid.”
This deflection minimizes your concerns and shifts the focus onto you. It’s a tactic to make you doubt your instincts.
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
6. “As far as I know…”
This vague statement creates wiggle room for later deniability. It avoids committing to a clear answer while appearing cooperative.
7. “That’s exactly what happened.”
Overly specific affirmations often signal rehearsed lies. The liar tries to sound convincing but comes off as too polished.
8. “I didn’t want to hurt your feelings.”
This excuse attempts to justify dishonesty by framing it as kindness. It’s a way to downplay the lie’s significance.
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
9. “That’s not what I meant.”
Liars use this phrase to backtrack when caught in an inconsistency. It shifts blame onto the listener for misunderstanding.
10. “It wasn’t a big deal.”
Minimizing the situation is a classic tactic. It suggests the lie doesn’t matter and encourages you to drop the subject.
11. “You know me—I would never do that.”
Appealing to their character diverts attention from the lie. It’s an attempt to make you question your own doubts.
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
12. “I was just joking.”
Claiming something was a joke is a common way to cover up a lie. It gives them an easy out if they’re called out.
13. “That’s crazy—who told you that?”
Feigning surprise or outrage shifts focus onto the source of the information, not the truth of the statement.
14. “I don’t want to talk about it.”
Avoiding the subject entirely is often a sign of dishonesty. Refusal to engage usually means there’s something to hide.
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
15. “I didn’t say that.”
Flat-out denial of past statements is a form of gaslighting. Liars hope you’ll question your memory instead of their honesty.
16. “Trust me, I would never lie to you.”
Overemphasizing trust is ironically a sign of deceit. People who are truthful don’t feel the need to repeatedly assure you of their integrity.
More from Sweet & Savory Morsels
- 15 Replies That Put People in Their Place When They Talk Down to You
- 16 Quiet Behaviors That Show a Woman May Have No Close Friends
- Is Your Mind Wired Differently? 22 Traits of a Complex Thinker
- Your Parents Did a Better Job Than You Think if These 15 Things are True For You
- 20 Beautiful Hairstyles for Women Over 50 That Never Get Old
Like Sweet & Savory Morsels' content? Follow us on MSN.
