Last updated on June 10th, 2025 at 02:34 pm
Here are 15 phrases that make you emotionally intelligent by constantly and genuinely incorporating them into your everyday interactions with people.
We humans interact daily in the family, social situations, and workplaces, with our emotions playing a central role..
Knowing how best to put our words is more important than what is being said.
The best intentions conveyed with the wrong words will lose their effect and may even elicit the opposite expectation.
When you care less about how you say the things you say, you hurt where you meant to please, and make people see you in an unintended light.
When this happens so often, people attach crude behaviors to your personality.
You might lose out on important collaborations or friendships because you project yourself as emotionally daft.
Research suggests that emotional intelligence is just as important as intellectual intelligence when it comes to career success and personal happiness.
In this article, we have distilled 15 phrases that make you emotionally intelligent when you use them as often as possible and appropriately.
Table of Contents
15 Phrases That Show You Have Emotional Intelligence
Your words have the power to shape how people feel around you.
By using emotionally intelligent phrases, you don’t just express your thoughts clearly, you also make others feel seen, heard, and valued.
These expressions help you handle tough conversations, build trust, and strengthen your relationships without being pushy or overbearing.
“I Understand How You Feel”
This phrase shows you’re emotionally aware and tuned into someone else’s emotional state.
It works best when you’re fully present. Making eye contact and listening with patience reinforces your sincerity.
It isn’t enough to say the words; your tone, body language, and timing must also show genuine understanding.
People will respond better when they feel you really get them, and this makes your connection stronger.
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“That’s a Good Idea.”
Use this phrase to recognize someone’s contribution without needing to agree with every detail.
It shows you’re open-minded and respect others’ input. This builds a positive atmosphere where people feel safe sharing ideas.
It also encourages collaboration. But be honest, don’t say it to flatter.
People can tell when you’re being fake, and insincere praise does more harm than good.
“Thank You.”
Gratitude strengthens your bonds with others. A sincere “thank you” can do more than you think.
It tells people their actions matter, and that you noticed.
When used regularly and authentically, this simple phrase can help you create a respectful and supportive environment where people want to engage with you.
“I’m Sorry”
Owning your mistakes shows emotional maturity. Saying “I’m sorry” reflects your willingness to take responsibility, make things right, and move forward.
It’s not about admitting defeat but about acknowledging the impact of your actions.
A heartfelt apology can repair trust faster than excuses ever will. It also shows self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth.
“Can You Please Explain?”
Asking this shows that you’re truly listening and want to understand fully before responding.
It opens the door to clarity and shows respect for the other person’s experience.
You’re not just waiting for your turn to speak, you want to learn more. This can calm misunderstandings and encourage open, respectful dialogue.
“Let’s Try Another Approach”
Sometimes, what you’re doing just isn’t working. Saying this phrase shows you’re not stuck in your ways.
You’re open to change, ready to collaborate, and willing to try new solutions. It also signals that you value results over ego.
This mindset invites fresh ideas and makes others more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
“How Can I Help?”
Asking this lets people know you’re not just observing their struggles—you’re willing to step in.
It shows kindness and initiative, not just sympathy. But don’t ask unless you mean it.
People know when you’re offering out of habit versus real concern. Be specific, and listen closely to what they say they need.
“I Appreciate You”
Saying “I appreciate you” is personal and meaningful. It tells someone their effort or presence matters to you.
It goes beyond gratitude for a task and recognizes the person behind it.
Use this phrase when you want to strengthen a bond and let someone know you truly value them as they are.
“What Can I Learn from This?”
This question helps you grow through setbacks instead of being stuck in frustration.
It’s emotionally intelligent because it shifts your focus from blame to understanding.
Instead of reacting, you pause to reflect. It helps you manage your emotions, stay calm, and become more mindful in how you respond to future situations.
“That Must Be Difficult”
People don’t always need solutions. Sometimes, they just want to feel understood.
Saying this shows you’re not rushing to fix things or dismiss feelings. You’re acknowledging their pain and offering emotional support.
That can make someone feel less alone and more willing to open up and trust you.
“I Trust You”
This phrase empowers others. When you say “I trust you,” you’re placing confidence in someone’s ability to make decisions or handle a task.
It communicates belief in their judgment and strengthens your bond.
Trust encourages people to live up to that expectation and creates a foundation for mutual respect.
“Can You Tell Me More?”
This keeps the conversation going in a meaningful direction.
It signals that you’re engaged and care about the other person’s experience.
You’re not just nodding along, you genuinely want to understand.
This phrase makes people feel valued, encourages deeper sharing, and often leads to stronger, more thoughtful communication.
“Let’s Work Together”
Using this phrase shows you’re not in it just for yourself. You value collaboration and see the benefit of combining strengths.
This mindset promotes teamwork and helps others feel included.
It also shows you’re open to listening and adjusting, which can lead to more effective outcomes and smoother relationships.
“I’m Here for You”
When someone is going through a tough time, this phrase provides emotional safety.
It reassures them that they don’t have to face things alone. It doesn’t require you to fix anything; just being present matters.
This statement can deepen trust and remind someone they matter to you.
“Let’s Take a Break”
Sometimes the smartest thing to do is pause. This phrase shows you’re paying attention to how emotions are affecting the moment.
Instead of pushing through a heated discussion or stressful task, taking a break gives everyone time to cool off and return with a clearer head.
It reflects emotional control and care for everyone’s well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do emotionally intelligent people say?
Emotionally intelligent people say words of empathy, understanding, and encouragement. They actively listen, validate emotions, and express gratitude and appreciation.
What is a good quote for emotional intelligence?
“Emotional intelligence is the key to understanding ourselves and others, fostering empathy, and building meaningful connections that enrich our lives.”
What words show emotional intelligence?
Words that show emotional intelligence include empathy, understanding, gratitude, validation, encouragement, support, and appreciation.
How do I say I am emotionally intelligent?
To say you are emotionally intelligent, you can express your ability to understand and manage emotions, empathize with others, communicate effectively, and build strong, positive relationships based on trust and respect.
Final Thoughts
The above 15 phrases that make you emotionally intelligent are just a few in the pool of phrases that can make you emotionally smart.
These phrases might come naturally to some people while being strange to others.
Emotional intelligence is a key component of personal and professional success that depends on effective communication.
The 15 emotional intelligence phrases in this article suggest that emotionally intelligent individuals prioritize empathy, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate difficult situations gracefully.
They can help you become more emotionally intelligent by encouraging you to take ownership of your feelings, show compassion towards others, and communicate with clarity and respect.
References:
- Useful Emotionally Intelligent Phrases
- 15 Signs You Are Emotionally Intelligent
- 80 Most Inspiring Emotional Intelligence Quotes
- https://g3freedom.co.nz/5-phrases-to-use-to-improve-your-emotional-intelligence-and-relationships-at-work/
Pyo Merez (PsyD) is a distinguished adolescent and adult psychologist at the forefront of mental health advocacy.
With expertise in cognitive and developmental psychology, focusing on social relationships, cultural contexts, and individual differences, Pyo has dedicated his career to empowering adolescents and adults.
As a sought-after speaker and panelist, Pyo shares invaluable insights on issues affecting young people, contributing to a deeper understanding of mental health and well-being in today's society.