Found this on a Reddit Board.  Like always, the gold is found in the comments.

Life Pro Tips

Sounding SmartReplace “but” with “however”, “although”, or even just a pause so your listener avoids negating the first part of your sentence.

When people hear “but” they automatically negate the first part of your sentence. This is why many people say “I’m sorry,but…” Isn’t a real apology — because whatever the second part of the sentence is trumps the sorry.

I’ve found its especially useful when you’re trying to avoid being accusatory or when you’re trying to bring up an issue without putting the other person on the defense because the pause required to replace the “but” will also make you consider how to phrase the rest of your thought better.

Person: You handled that customer well, but you can’t be so blunt.

Other person: you handled that customer well. However, next time you can try telling them in a kinder way.

 

Comments

[–]blargh12312312312312 [score hidden]

Wrong! Those still negate the sentence. Use “and” instead.

I think that painting is wonderful and I suggest working a bit more on that duck in the corner.

[–]GlipGlop4Lyfe [score hidden]

I think the painting is wonderful. I love your use of colour. I suggest working on that duck in the corner. Better detail there will really bring balance to the piece. It’s really a great work of art!

[–]El_Dumfuco [score hidden]

It’s subtle, but makes a huge difference.

[–]Dwelven [score hidden]

What makes a huge difference?

[–]El_Dumfuco [score hidden]

sigh

It’s subtle, and makes a huge difference.

[–]Vargasa871 [score hidden]

I’m sorry your sister is dead, and she was a cunt. Idk doesn’t seem to work.