We’ve all met someone who seems to talk a lot but says very little. Their words might sound polished, but something always feels off.
These superficial personalities often use repetitive, meaningless phrases that are designed to impress on the surface, without offering any real substance.
In this article, we’ll dive into eight specific phrases that reveal when someone is putting up a shallow front—and discuss why these expressions are a sign of a personality that’s more concerned with appearances than authenticity.
1) They’re fond of name-dropping
If you’ve ever found yourself in a conversation with someone who seems to know everyone and their dog, you might have encountered a superficial personality.
Name-dropping is one of the most common phrases these individuals employ.
It’s as though they’re more interested in showcasing their allegedly impressive connections rather than engaging in a meaningful conversation with you.
The thing is, genuine individuals don’t feel the need to constantly flaunt their social circles.
They understand that relationships, whether personal or professional, are not badges of honor to be paraded around, but rather bonds to be cherished and nurtured.
If you find yourself stuck in a conversation that feels more like a celebrity roll call than a real exchange of ideas, it might be time to reconsider the depth of that person’s personality.
After all, they should be interested in getting to know you, not just recounting who they know.
2) Their conversations are filled with humble brags
Coming hot on the heels of name-dropping is the notorious ‘humble brag’. This is another phrase technique that people with superficial personalities often use.
It’s that subtle way of boasting under the guise of modesty.
They’ll tell you about their amazing vacation in the swankiest resort, but end it with “Oh, but it was way too crowded” or “I just can’t seem to get away from work, even on vacation”.
I remember a particular interaction where someone I met at a social event started a conversation about their recent promotion.
But here’s the twist: they played it down saying, “It’s nothing major. I only head up three departments now”.
This left me feeling like I was on an emotional seesaw.
One minute I was congratulating them, and the next, I felt like I had been lured into their self-promotion, all under the veil of faux modesty.
Such instances reveal more than just a misguided attempt at humility. They betray a deep-seated need for validation and attention, hallmarks of a superficial and empty personality.
3) They frequently use clichés and platitudes
These individuals tend to fall back on clichés and platitudes, rather than expressing original thoughts or feelings.
For instance, you might hear phrases like “Everything happens for a reason” or “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”.
While these sayings aren’t inherently bad, their overuse, especially in inappropriate contexts, can indicate a lack of depth.
It’s as if these individuals are using borrowed wisdom to mask their lack of substance. Genuine conversations require more than just regurgitating well-worn phrases.
They demand authenticity, empathy, and a willingness to reveal one’s unique perspective of the world.
4) They use vague language to avoid commitment
One of the hallmarks of a superficial personality is ambiguous or evasive language. This can manifest as a tendency to avoid making definitive statements, commitments, or expressing clear opinions.
You see, it seems people who often use vague language are seen as less trustworthy. This vagueness can be a mechanism to dodge accountability or to keep their options open.
You may have noticed phrases like “Maybe, we’ll see” or “I might be able to do that” cropping up frequently in your conversations with them. It’s as if they’re keeping one foot out the door, ready to bolt at any moment.
While it’s normal for people to be unsure at times, consistently avoiding commitment in communication can be a red flag.
Genuine relationships require trust and reliability, traits that are hard to foster when someone is perpetually non-committal.
So if you find yourself in a conversation filled with ambiguity and non-commitment, it might be time to reconsider the depth of the personality you’re dealing with.
5) They overuse flattery
Flattery can be quite a seductive tool. Who doesn’t like to be complimented, right? But when it’s overly used or seems insincere, it might be a sign of a superficial personality.
People with such personalities often resort to excessive flattery as a means to seek approval or manipulate others.
You’ll hear them utter phrases like “You’re the best at this” or “No one else can do it like you” quite often.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Genuine compliments are a beautiful part of human interaction.
But when every conversation seems packed with over-the-top praise, it starts feeling less about appreciation and more about manipulation.
In essence, insincere flattery is not a sign of admiration.
Rather, it’s an indication that the person may be using flowery words to cover up their lack of depth or to get something out of you.
6) They always steer the conversation back to themselves
We’ve all had conversations where it feels like we’re talking to a mirror rather than a person. Some people just have a knack for bringing every discussion back to themselves.
Individuals with a superficial personality often use phrases like “That’s just like when I…” or “I know exactly how you feel, I once…”.
While sharing personal experiences can be a way of relating to others, constantly redirecting the conversation towards oneself can indicate a lack of empathy or interest in others’ experiences.
It’s as if they’re starring in their own movie, and everyone else is just a supporting character.
A balanced conversation involves give and take, an exchange of ideas and emotions. It’s not a monologue, but a dialogue.
7) They frequently use generic compliments
Generic compliments are another phrase technique often employed by those with a superficial personality. Whether it’s “You look great” or “Nice job”, these phrases lack the personal touch that makes a compliment meaningful.
You see, genuine compliments are specific and tailored to the individual. They show that you’ve paid attention to the person, noticed something special about them, and taken the time to acknowledge it.
On the other hand, generic compliments can often feel hollow and insincere. They’re like placeholders, used when the person doesn’t care enough to find something unique to appreciate about you.
So the next time you receive a compliment, take a moment to gauge its sincerity.
8) They often use dismissive language
The final point I want to highlight is the frequent use of dismissive language. It’s perhaps one of the most telling signs of a superficial personality.
Phrases like “Whatever” or “It doesn’t matter” often slip out of their mouths, particularly when faced with emotionally charged or serious topics.
It’s as if they’re scared of diving too deep, choosing instead to stay in the shallow waters of triviality.
Dismissive language indicates a lack of emotional depth and an aversion to meaningful connections.
It’s a way of maintaining emotional distance while avoiding the vulnerability that comes with genuine engagement.
Deep, meaningful relationships require an openness to experience not just the highs, but also the lows.
They demand empathy, understanding, and emotional courage. And anyone who’s quick to dismiss your thoughts or feelings might just be showing you their superficial and empty personality.
The final reflection
The phrases we use can say a lot about who we are.
When someone relies on superficial language and behaviors, it may point to a deeper insecurity or emptiness.
The 8 signs discussed illustrate how some individuals may struggle to form genuine connections, often prioritizing appearance or approval over meaningful engagement.
By being aware of these behaviors, we can cultivate more authentic relationships and also reflect on our own communication styles.
Ultimately, striving for depth in our interactions can lead to more fulfilling connections and a richer understanding of ourselves and others.
