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Euphemisms for Saying "I Don't Know"

Guest post by: Jeanie Marshall

Article Overview: There are times when the perfect answer to a question is, "I don’t know." At those times, say precisely that, with confidence or authority. Sometimes it's unwise to say "I don’t know."

Euphemisms for Saying "I Don't Know"

People ask questions for all different reasons. Sometimes it’s helpful to know the statement behind the question; other times, it would be insensitive to ask why someone is asking before answering, yet it might feel acceptable after giving a brief answer. The key is to find ways to respond that keep you feeling as empowered as possible. It’s also a good policy to respond in ways that the person who is asking feels empowered, or at least not disempowered.

Sometimes the perfect answer is, “I don’t know.” At those times, say precisely that, with confidence or authority.

Sometimes it’s unwise to say, “I don’t know.” At those times, you may want to avoid the question or answer another question. Most politicians do this very well. Not all questions are appropriate, but, even so, it’s also not always appropriate for you to highlight the inappropriateness of the one asking the question.

Here are some euphemisms for saying “I don’t know” when you’re asked for information and you don’t have the answer. Some of these are also useful when you’re being asked for your point of view, rather than for factual information. And a few of them might be appropriate when you really want to say, “it’s none of your business.”

In one-on-one situations...

1. I’ve been wondering the same thing.

2. I’ll be happy to get the answer for you.

3. That’s a really good question. I wish I had a really good answer. I think [name of person] will know the answer or have some ideas.

4. That’s something we’ve been working to discover. Let me tell you my thoughts so far.

5. Let’s think this out together.

6. That’s not my area of expertise. I’ll ask the appropriate expert to get back to you. (Or, I suggest you call [name of person] and say that I thought he or she can help you.)

7. I’ll check that out. (Or, I’ll have to check that out.)

8. I’ve got an idea about that, but I want to double check something first.

9. I can think of several possibilities (approaches, considerations). What do you have in mind? (Or, ….What have you tried so far?)

10. I’m hearing several questions in your question. Maybe we can get clear about what information you’re really looking for and then I can be more helpful.

11. I think that’s a really good question to ask someone else (or a specific person).


In group situations...

1. Has anyone in the group had a similar experience?

2. Can anyone in the group answer that question or at least shed some light on it?

3. I think that’s a wonderful question for us to explore together.


What are some of your euphemisms for saying “I don’t know”?

Copyright © 2006 Marshall House

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