7. “You’re being too sensitive”
This phrase walks a fine line, and how it lands really depends on your intent. If you’re using it during a disagreement to shut your partner down or make them question their feelings, it can be incredibly toxic. In that case, it’s often used to gaslight and invalidate. On the other hand, if you’re joking around and he takes something the wrong way, or he’s venting about a tough day at work, saying “you’re too sensitive” might not seem cruel, but it still sends a message that his feelings aren’t welcome. Even if you didn’t mean harm, it might make him pull back or stop opening up. Most people want to feel safe when expressing emotion, not judged. One solid piece of relationship advice for women is to check your tone and timing before saying things like this. Support goes a lot further than sarcasm.
