Responding to an insult can be challenging, but having a thoughtful response can put the offender on the back foot. Here are five effective ways to respond to insults, recommended by therapists and experts.
**1. Turn the Tables with a Genuine Question**
Ask “Are you okay?” to make the other person feel uncomfortable and defensive. This response assumes they’re trying to elevate themselves through belittling others.
Therapist Bernadette Purcell suggests this approach because it puts the insulter on the back foot and shows confidence and empathy.
**2. Call Out the Backhanded Compliment with Humor**
Use humor to diffuse tension when faced with a backhanded compliment. Respond with a lighthearted comment like “I’m sure you mean that in the nicest way possible!” or “I’m glad I exceeded your low expectations.”
Relationship Expert Jessica Alderson recommends this approach to address underlying criticism while keeping things light.
**3. Keep Your Cool and Ignore the Insult**
Therapist Riyan Portuguez advises simply ignoring the insult, smiling, and looking them in the eye without reacting. This makes you appear composed and puts pressure on the offender.
Grayson Allen, a University of Cambridge graduate, agrees that this approach is effective because it shows you’re not fazed by their comment.
**4. Make Them Admit Their Intentions**
Ask “What was your intention with that comment?” to make the insulter admit their true intentions and puts them in an uncomfortable position.
Therapist Jessica Good recommends this response for its effectiveness and therapeutic value.
**5. Defuse with Empathy (But Don’t Agree)**
Lawyer Jefferson Fisher suggests responding by agreeing with the remark while also checking in on the person’s well-being. This helps keep them from enjoying the dopamine hit of insulting someone.
By using these strategies, you can respond to insults without escalating the situation or engaging with the offender. Remember to stay calm, confident, and empathetic, even when faced with hurtful comments.
Source: https://www.upworthy.com/whats-the-most-clever-and-confident-response-to-an-insult-6-experts-share-the-best-comebacks