11 Overused Phrases That Make Arkansans Sound Outdated—and What to Say Instead
Many of us have go-to phrases we drop into our conversations without thinking. But over time, these words often start to sound old-fashioned.
These are some of the most commonly overused phrases that make Arkansans seem outdated.
Don’t worry—we’ll give you fresh alternatives that’ll make you sound more modern when talking with younger folks.
At the End of the Day
The phrase “At the end of the day” has been used in meetings, movies, and everyday chats to sum up a point.
People often use it when they are wrapping up an idea, but it can make you sound like you’re stuck in a time warp.
Instead of saying “At the end of the day,” try saying “When all is said and done” or simply “In the end.”
It Is What It Is
We often hear It is what it is” when someone wants to avoid further discussion about a problem.
It sounds like a shrug—a way to say that nothing can be done about the situation.
A more modern way to handle such a moment is by saying, “That’s the way it goes” or “Sometimes things just happen.”
Basically
“Basically” is a word that sneaks into our speech without notice.
We use it to simplify our ideas or to introduce an explanation. However, it’s a phrase that’s leaving the vocabulary of younger people.
To freshen up your speech, try skipping “basically” altogether. If you need to set the stage for your point, say “In short” or “To put it simply.”
You Know What I Mean?
“You know what I mean?” was once a common phrase that’s taken a backseat in more recent times. It’s meant to check if the listener is following, but it often ends up interrupting the flow of a conversation.
Instead of using “You know what I mean?” pause for a moment and let your words stand on their own.
If you feel you need to check in with your listener, try saying, “Does that make sense?” to sound more current.
Literally
Way back in the day, “literally” meant something was true in a strict, factual sense.
It then transformed into a way to show strong emotion, even when things weren’t literally true. Now, younger people are moving away from using “literally.”
Instead of “literally,” try using “seriously” or “really” when you want to emphasize a point.
These words stick to the truth while still giving your message a modern punch.
Cool Story, Bro
When someone shares a story that doesn’t really hit the mark, the sarcastic “Cool story, bro” is still a go-to retort for some people.
It’s meant to be humorous, but it’s becoming out of date.
Nowadays, younger people often resort to something along the lines of a sarcastic “That’s interesting.”
Let’s Circle Back
“Let’s circle back” is still a favorite line in some business settings, but it often makes young people new to the workforce cringe.
Instead, Gen Z may use “Let’s come back to this” or “We can revisit this later.”
Let’s Touch Base
“Let’s touch base” is another go-to in corporate lingo that many people still use to suggest a quick catch-up.
While it sounds friendly, it’s also starting to sound outdated.
Instead, try replacing “Let’s touch base” with “Let’s meet up” or “Let’s chat soon.”
I Could Care Less
The phrase “I could care less” was once commonly tossed around to express a lack of interest.
It was also notoriously said wrong (I couldn’t care less).
A more modern option is to say “I don’t care” or “It doesn’t matter to me.”
I’m Just Saying
Often used as a way to soften a blunt comment, “I’m just saying” was formerly a crutch for dodging responsibility for one’s words.
It’s no longer as common to hear younger generations using this phrase.
Instead, it’s more common to hear “Here’s my take” or “In my opinion.”
Back in My Day
“Back in my day” is a phrase that older Americans use to reminisce about the past, often to compare it to the present. It’s also a surefire way to make you sound outdated.
We’re not here to deny you the wisdom you’ve accumulated during your decades on earth, but let us suggest a more modern way to go about it.
Instead of saying “Back in my day,” try using phrases like “When I was younger” or “In the past.”
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