Some people just have a way with words. They speak with clarity, confidence, and a depth of understanding that makes you instantly take notice.
And often, it’s not about using big, complicated words—it’s about knowing which words to use and how to use them.
Highly intelligent people tend to phrase things in ways that reveal their sharp thinking, emotional awareness, and problem-solving abilities.
The way they communicate shows curiosity, adaptability, and a genuine interest in meaningful conversations.
If you listen closely, there are certain phrases that signal someone has a high level of intelligence—not just in knowledge but in how they navigate the world. Here are eight of them.
1) “I don’t know, but I’ll find out”
A truly intelligent person isn’t afraid to admit when they don’t have all the answers. In fact, one of the clearest signs of intelligence is knowing the limits of your own knowledge—and being eager to expand them.
Saying, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out,” shows confidence, humility, and a willingness to learn.
It signals that you value accuracy over ego and that you’re committed to seeking the right information rather than guessing or pretending to know more than you do.
In a world where many people try to bluff their way through conversations, this phrase stands out. It builds credibility and trust because it reassures others that when you *do* speak on a topic, they can trust what you say.
2) “That’s a great question”
I remember sitting in a meeting once where someone asked me a question I hadn’t considered before. For a split second, I felt the pressure to come up with an answer immediately.
But instead of rushing into a response, I paused and said, “That’s a great question.”
It gave me a moment to gather my thoughts, but more importantly, it showed that I valued the other person’s curiosity. Intelligent people recognize that good questions drive deeper conversations.
Acknowledging a great question doesn’t just make the other person feel heard—it also signals that you’re someone who thinks critically and appreciates thoughtful discussion.
Ever since that meeting, I’ve made it a habit to use this phrase when someone challenges my thinking. It keeps me open-minded and encourages more meaningful conversations.
3) “I hadn’t thought of it that way before”
This phrase signals intellectual flexibility—the ability to consider new perspectives without feeling threatened.
Intelligent people don’t cling to their opinions just for the sake of being right; they actively seek out different viewpoints and are willing to adjust their thinking when presented with new information.
Studies have shown that our brains naturally resist changing beliefs, even when faced with contradictory evidence.
This is known as the backfire effect, where people sometimes become more convinced of their stance when challenged.
But those with a high level of intelligence recognize this tendency and make a conscious effort to stay open-minded.
Saying, “I hadn’t thought of it that way before,” shows that you’re engaged in the conversation, willing to learn, and unafraid of growth.
It encourages deeper discussions and fosters mutual respect—traits that define truly intelligent individuals.
4) “Can you help me understand?”
Asking for clarification isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of intelligence. People with a high level of intelligence don’t pretend to know everything.
Instead, they seek to understand things fully, even if it means admitting they need more information.
This phrase is especially powerful because it shifts the conversation from potential conflict to collaboration.
Rather than immediately dismissing an idea or making assumptions, asking, “Can you help me understand?” invites the other person to share their perspective.
It shows curiosity, emotional intelligence, and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
The smartest people know that knowledge isn’t just about having answers—it’s about asking the right questions. And this simple phrase opens the door to deeper insights and stronger connections.
5) “I appreciate your perspective”
In a world where conversations often turn into debates, this phrase is a breath of fresh air. It’s easy to dismiss opinions we don’t agree with or rush to prove our own point.
But truly intelligent people understand the value of different perspectives—even when they don’t align with their own.
Saying, “I appreciate your perspective,” doesn’t mean you have to agree. It simply acknowledges that the other person’s thoughts and experiences are valid.
It fosters respect, keeps discussions open, and shows emotional intelligence—an often overlooked but crucial aspect of true intelligence.
At its core, intelligence isn’t just about knowing facts or solving problems. It’s also about how we connect with others, how we listen, and how we create space for meaningful conversations.
And sometimes, a simple expression of appreciation can make all the difference.
6) “I was wrong about that”
Admitting when you’re wrong isn’t easy. It can feel uncomfortable, even embarrassing at times. But the smartest people don’t see mistakes as failures—they see them as opportunities to grow.
Holding onto a wrong idea just to protect your ego only limits your potential. The ability to say, “I was wrong about that,” shows confidence, self-awareness, and a commitment to truth over pride.
It also earns respect. People trust those who are willing to own their mistakes because it shows integrity and a genuine desire to improve.
No one gets everything right all the time. But the way we handle being wrong says a lot about our intelligence—and our character.
7) “What if we tried it this way?”
Problem-solving is a key trait of highly intelligent people, and this phrase reflects a mindset that values creativity and collaboration. Instead of shutting down ideas or pointing out flaws, it shifts the focus toward solutions.
Great thinkers don’t just identify problems—they explore possibilities. Saying, “What if we tried it this way?” invites discussion, encourages innovation, and shows a willingness to experiment with new approaches.
It also helps others feel included rather than dismissed, fostering an environment where ideas can grow.
Intelligence isn’t just about knowing the right answer—it’s about asking the right questions and being open to different ways of thinking. And sometimes, one simple question can lead to the best solutions.
8) “I’d love to hear your thoughts”
The smartest people know that intelligence isn’t just about speaking—it’s also about listening. They understand that everyone has something valuable to contribute, and they actively seek out different perspectives.
Saying, “I’d love to hear your thoughts,” shows humility, curiosity, and respect for others.
It creates space for meaningful conversations and signals that you’re not just waiting for your turn to talk—you genuinely care about what others have to say.
True intelligence isn’t about proving how much you know. It’s about being open to learning from the people around you.
Bottom line: Intelligence is how you communicate it
Intelligence isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you express it. The way we communicate reveals more than our knowledge; it shows our ability to think critically, adapt, and connect with others.
Psychologists have long studied the link between language and intelligence.
Research suggests that the most intelligent individuals aren’t necessarily those who use the biggest words or the most complex sentences, but those who can articulate ideas clearly, engage in thoughtful dialogue, and remain open to new perspectives.
The words we choose shape the way people perceive us. They can build trust, foster collaboration, and signal curiosity—or they can do the opposite.
In the end, intelligence isn’t just measured by IQ or facts memorized; it’s reflected in how we navigate conversations, how we listen, and how we invite others into meaningful discussions.
