If you’ve been looking to elevate your diction to communicate more effectively, you’ve landed on the right page. While there’s uniqueness and beauty in the many ways in which people speak, there are specific phrases you can use that can help you appear more "high-class" due to the psychology of communication and status.Whether you want to make a good impression when meeting your partner's parents for the first time or you want to impress your boss at a work dinner, there are many situations where you might want to sound especially high-class. Pish posh, you might say. But it's relatable! We're not advocating for elitism here; there are just moments when you might benefit from seeming a bit more upper-crust. If anything, it'll teach you more etiquette, which is always useful.Parade spoke with two psychologists to learn more about how what we communicate can be indicative of one’s "status" or make it appear higher. They also share nine phrases that "high-class" people often use—along with their significance—which you can adopt moving forward. Related: 5 Things Classy People Never, Ever Reveal About Themselves in Public, According to an Etiquette Expert
What Does ‘High Class’ Mean?
While wealth and high social status might first come to mind at the mention of "high class," or when thinking about "high-class" individuals, that's not always the case. Dr. Noëlle Santorelli, PhD.—a licensed clinical psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia—notes that the term "high class" is often more strongly associated with behavior and presentation in today’s society. "Someone might be described as high-class, regardless of actual wealth or status, if they show refinement in manners, speech and dress, demonstrate grace under pressure, treat others with courtesy and carry themselves with a calm confidence,” she explains.
There are several ways you can sound more "upper-class." Without even thinking about wealth or status, Dr. Santorelli notes that if you're calm and regulate your emotions—which gives you an air of authority—and have social intelligence, you will come off as more posh.“People perceived as ‘high class' often speak with calmness and restraint (never rushed or reactive), use indirect, polite and gracious language, avoid slang or harsh words, sound confident without trying to prove themselves [and use] phrasing [that] reflects self-assurance,” she explains. Over-explaining and seeking validation in some instances may detract from how high-class you might seem, though. Dr. Cynthia Shaw, a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Authentically Living Psychological Services, adds that clarity and speaking intentionally can help one sound more "upper-class." “Think about what you're wanting to convey and how to express those thoughts in the most direct, clear, and respectful way,” she advises. Related: 9 Things High-Level Thinkers Notice That the Average Person Ignores, According to Psychologists
9 Phrases ‘High-Class’ People Often Use, According to Psychologists
We all know the phrase “time is money,” which can be true in some cases. So it makes sense that “I really appreciate your time” is an even more powerful phrase. You’re thanking the receiver for something specific (their time), outwardly recognizing how valuable it is. When using this phrase, “the other person feels valued, not taken for granted and is more likely to comply with your request,” says Dr. Santorelli. That said, Dr. Shaw notes that the impact of this phrase (as well as some other similar pleasantries) is largely determined by your sincerity. Say this when you mean it.
2. 'I see your point, and I think (XYZ).'
While it might be tempting to say, “No, that’s wrong” or “I don’t think so,” when engaging in conversation or disagreement, how you express an opposing point of view can be pivotal when it comes to how you’re perceived by others. “Just because you express pleasantries, doesn't mean you have to agree with what is said,” says Dr. Shaw. “Agreeing to disagree, such as [with] 'I see your point, and I think (xyz)' invites healthy dialogue and shows respect even when faced with opposing views.” Dr. Santorelli adds that acknowledging the opposing perspective before offering your own shows empathy and can prevent a feeling of defensiveness from the person when you offer your opposing perspective. Related: 8 Phrases To Shut Down Conflict That Instantly Make You Sound Classy
Dr. Shaw notes that "high-class" people tend to emphasize the beginning and endings of social interactions. Why? Because these parts are what people remember the most and they bear the most influence on how they remember you, thanks to the psychological phenomenon known as the Peak-end Rule. This rule essentially states that an event’s climax and ending bear the most influence and have the most impact on one’s perception and feeling regarding the conversation or interaction.“[‘So good to see you’ signals] friendliness and approachability without entanglement," explains Dr. Santorelli. She adds that this phrase is frequently used in repeated interactions. “It was nice catching up with you today,” is another example of a gracious phrase that can be used to properly conclude an interaction, adds Dr. Shaw.
4. 'Shall we?'
While more of a question than a phrase, Dr. Santorelli notes that “Shall we?” is common among "upper-class" individuals as it prompts collective action without appearing forceful, and reduces the potential for pushback and/or resistance. “High-class communication often guides without commanding, signaling collaboration rather than control,” she says.
Dr. Shaw notes that manners are regularly articulated amongst high-class people. That said, you’ll oftentimes hear these individuals tag “thank you” to a request or if someone pays them a pleasantry in the form of a compliment or kind act or service. A simple “thank you” can go a long way to express gratitude, graciousness and politeness.
6. 'That’s very kind of you.'
Similarly, Dr. Santorelli notes that the remark, “That’s very kind of you,” is another common phrase used by high-class people to express gratitude without being overly emotional when receiving kindness or generosity from another person. “High-status individuals are accustomed to others complying with requests, and this calm, measured statement signals that,” she shares.
Whether you’re concluding a business meeting, dinner or social gathering, Dr. Santorelli notes that high-class people often use “my pleasure” as a way of conveying that they enjoyed it. “People walk away feeling like the exchange mattered and believe that you valued your time spent together,” she explains. Related: People Who Are Considered ‘Type A’ Often Share These 9 Traits, Psychologists Say
8. 'Do forgive me.'
Dr. Santorelli notes that “Do forgive me” is commonly used by high-class people to apologize for minor inconveniences or mistakes. Since this phrase is typically used to offer an apology for smaller actions, this phrase "accepts responsibility without over-apologizing or creating awkwardness,” she explains. Furthermore, the wording of this phrase is graceful and eloquent, which demonstrates maturity.
9. 'I’d be happy to.'
If someone asks you to do something, “I’d be happy to” is a great phrase to use to signal that you’re willing (and happy) to oblige. “[This phrase] is a polished way of saying 'yes' to requests that signals high social etiquette,” explains Dr. Santorelli. If you wish to adopt this phrase (and use it), ensure that you’re actually happy to fulfill what is asked of you, as sincerity is important. Up Next:
Related: 12 Things Emotionally Intelligent Women Do That the Average Person Avoids, Psychologists Say
Sources:
Dr. Noëlle Santorelli, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia.Dr. Cynthia Shaw, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, Certified Grief Professional, Approved Clinical Supervisor and the owner of Authentically Living Psychological Services.Hence then, the article about 9 phrases high class people 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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