Corporate speak is a language designed to hide emotions. But seasoned professionals know exactly what lies beneath the polite surface.
Dealing with passive-aggressive emails is a skill. The first step is translation. Here are the 7 most common "polite" phrases and what they actually mean.
1. "Per my last email"
"Can you read? I already answered this, and you are wasting my time."
The Professional Fix: Do not apologize profusely. Simply acknowledge the information. "Thanks for clarifying that point."
2. "Moving forward"
"You messed up. Stop making excuses and don't ever do that again."
This is usually used after a mistake has been made. It’s a signal to stop explaining yourself and just fix the process.
3. "As per our discussion"
"I don't trust you, so I am creating a paper trail for when you inevitably fail."
This is a classic CYA (Cover Your A**) move. If you receive this, make sure you reply and confirm the details immediately.
4. "Thanks in advance"
"I am not asking you. I am telling you. You have no choice."
It assumes compliance before you've even agreed. It's a subtle power move.
5. "Correct me if I'm wrong"
"I am definitely not wrong, and I am about to prove exactly why you are wrong."
6. "Let's take this offline"
"Shut up. You are embarrassing yourself (or me) in front of everyone."
7. "Regards" (instead of Kind regards)
"I am literally too angry to wish you kindness."
The shorter the sign-off, the colder the shoulder.
How to reply without losing your cool?
Reading these phrases can make your blood boil. But replying with anger is professional suicide.
Instead of typing a furious reply, use PoliteDraft. Type your raw, angry thoughts, and let our AI translate them into "Corporate Speak" that is firm, professional, and safe to send.