Feb 2, 2025

10 phrases people often use to manipulate their partner

Teesha Shirodkar

​Subtle ways your partner may manipulate

Many times, people may not even realise that their partner is trying to manipulate them. These phrases are very casually used in conversations but may control emotions, create guilt, and even affect your entire relationship. Here are a few such phrases:

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​“You’re simply overreacting”

When a person says this, they are trying to dismiss your emotions. It suggests that your feelings are too strong or unreasonable, which can make you doubt yourself. This can stop you from expressing your concerns in the future.

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​“I was just kidding”

This phrase is used to brush off hurtful comments. When your partner says something mean and then claims it was just a joke, they want to make you feel like you’re overreacting. This tactic makes you question your feelings and can leave you feeling guilty for being upset.

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​“If you really loved me, you would…”

This phrase is full of guilt. It implies that your love is based on doing what your partner wants. By saying this, they try to control your actions by making you feel that not meeting their demands means you don’t love them enough.

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​“If you really cared about me, you would…”

Similar to the previous phrase, this one uses emotional pressure. It suggests that your care for them depends on doing what they want. This can make you feel guilty for not complying with their wishes.

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​“It’s all in your head”

This phrase tells you that your feelings are not real or are exaggerated. It makes you doubt your own experiences and emotions instead of addressing the real issues in the relationship.

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​“No one else can deal with you”

By saying this, your partner may try to lower your self-esteem. It implies that no one else would put up with you, making you feel isolated and dependent on them for support.

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​“Don’t you trust me?”

When used manipulatively, this question makes you feel guilty for doubting them. It can lead to self-doubt about your feelings and instincts, making it harder for you to voice any concerns about trust.

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​“You’re the reason I act like this”

This phrase shifts the blame onto you for their bad behaviour. It makes you feel guilty and suggests that if you changed, they would be better. This can create an unhealthy dynamic where you feel pressured to change for them.

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​“You don’t understand”

This phrase tries to dismiss your point of view. By saying this, your partner is trying suggests that their opinion is the only one that matters. This phrase can make you feel less capable and less likely to share your thoughts.

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​“I’m only doing this for you”

When someone says this, they often use it to justify controlling behaviour. It implies that their actions are out of care while making you feel guilty for questioning them. True care should respect both partners' feelings and boundaries.

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Thanks For Reading!

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