Considering its long-term buzziness, you probably already have an idea of what narcissism is. But in case you haven’t, it’s essentially having an inflated ego. You may also know that narcissistic tendencies are different from narcissistic personality disorder, or NPD. The latter is a diagnosable mental health condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) that requires a person to meet at least five of nine criteria. Additionally, people are often on a narcissistic spectrum rather than categorically having it or not having it. And within all that, there are such things as high-level narcissists who are master manipulators on top of their narcissism.Here, we’re focusing more generally on people who have narcissistic tendencies—specifically those who are pretty skilled in their narcissistic tactics (hence, the “high-level” part). What are the common things they say in romantic relationships, work relationships and other relationships to gain control and skew perspectives? While no two people are alike, high-level narcissists have almost like a playbook when it comes to warping things in their favor.So if you think you have a narcissist like this in your life, there are some things you hear more often than others (and you might be familiar with this list). So, without further ado, here are eight phrases high-level narcissists often use and how you can respond. Plus, other tips for how to deal with this specific kind of narcissist.Related: 4 Common Habits of High-Level Gaslighters, According to Psychologists
8 Phrases High-Level Narcissists Use, According to Psychologists
2. 'I built this place.'
A narcissistic person may use this phrase to build their ego and claim ownership and power, especially in a work setting. “It’s basically their way of saying, ‘You owe me,’” explains Dr. Jason Walker, PsyD, PhD, program director and associate professor at Adler University. “Often, this phrase is used to rewrite history and diminish the work of others.”How to respond: He encourages sticking to the facts. You can say something like, “You’ve definitely taken on a major role—but so has the team,” mentioning examples of what others have contributed. “By reframing the narrative, it reinforces shared credit without confrontation,” he continues. “True leaders know that it’s a team, not a person, that makes a company great.”Related: 35 Phrases To Disarm a Narcissist and Why They Do the Trick, According to Therapists
4. 'If you were loyal, you’d agree with me.'
Welcome to a classic example of a guilt-trip. “The meaning is that disagreement implies betrayal,” Dr. Walker says. “Weaponizing loyalty to silence is one of the narcissist’s most favorite moves, and they design it to weaponize loyalty and silence critics. It’s all about control.”How to respond: Grounding yourself in integrity is key. He says you can do that with a phrase like, “I’m loyal to our mission, our goals, and I want to make sure we get this right.”Related: 8 Subtle ‘Guilt-Tripping’ Phrases That Are Easy to Miss, a Psychologist Warns
6. 'You’re too sensitive.'
This is a classic example of gaslighting and a deflection technique. “When you call people out for their behavior, the narcissist will reframe your reaction as the problem,” Dr. Walker explains. “It’s gaslighting at its best and meant to erode confidence and shift accountability.”How to respond: Rather than taking the bait, he encourages staying calm and replying matter-of-factly, saying, “I’m addressing the behavior, not reacting to it.” The less reaction you have, the more they’ll feel thrown off guard and not know what to do, he explains.
8. 'I’m just being honest.'
While portrayed as well-intentioned feedback, their phrase is likely more of an insult and a way to cover up cruelty. “It’s dominance dressed up as transparency,” Dr. Walker says.How to respond: Again, stay calm and professional while standing your ground. “Say, 'I appreciate honesty. Let’s make sure it’s constructive,'" he suggests. “This approach will reassert the standards you expect and respectful dialogue.”
Ground yourself by reconnecting with your core values, memories and identity.Write a letter to your younger self, reminding yourself of your strengths, boundaries and why your boundaries are important to you.Engage in reality testing, aka remind yourself that your perceptions need to be based on observable behaviors, not another person’s attempts to rewrite reality.Keep a journal recording notes, dates and concrete actions (for your own records, not for confrontation, and to help with reality testing).Reach out to people you trust, like a friend, family member, therapist, mentor or support group.Continue to set boundaries by using "I" statements, naming the pattern and sharing the consequence if they break your boundary (e.g., “If we can’t talk without name-calling, I'm walking away”).Engage in activities and relationships that help you feel emotionally safe.Remember it’s them, not you. Remain non-defensive; avoid reacting. Stay anchored in the facts.Redirect conversations.
Related: This Is the #1 Response a Narcissist Cannot Stand, According to a Psychologist
Related: 13 Mind Games Played by 'High-Level' Narcissists, According to Psychologists
Sources:
Dr. Jason Walker, PsyD, PhD, psychologistDr. Patricia Dixon, PsyD, licensed clinical psychologistHence then, the article about 8 phrases high level narcissists often use according to psychologists was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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