How to recognize manipulation? These are the sentences used by narcissists

Arguments are unpleasant in themselves, but conflict with a narcissist can be especially exhausting.

People with pronounced narcissistic traits often use manipulation, shift blame to others, and try to maintain control, which makes any conflict with them extremely frustrating and tiring, explains social worker Monica Cwynar.

That said, people with pronounced narcissistic traits often use specific phrases and tactics to avoid responsibility and shift the blame onto others.

Here are some of the phrases narcissists most often use during an argument – ​​and how to spot them.

“You are exaggerating”

When you express your hurt or dissatisfaction, a narcissist will often respond with phrases like, “You’re overly sensitive” or “You’re being dramatic for no reason,” Cwynar points out. The goal is to minimize your emotions and make you doubt your feelings, explains psychologist Justine Grosso.

"I'm not angry, you are!"

This is a classic example of projection—a defense mechanism in which the narcissist deflects their own emotions onto you. If you confront them about their behavior, they may accuse you of being the one yelling or being unreasonable, even though they were the one who got angry, Grosso points out.

"You always blame me!"

Narcissists often have a victim mentality and can't tolerate criticism. If you confront them about something they've done, they may say, "It's always my fault, no matter what I do," or "I could never please you," Cwynar explains. In doing so, they shift the focus from their behavior to your "unfairness."

"If you loved me, you would do this."

This is an example of emotional blackmail — a manipulative tactic in which a narcissist uses guilt to get what they want, Cwynar points out. Blackmail statements like “If you love me, you’ll do this for me” serve to force you to give in to their demands.

"You should have known I was angry."

Narcissists often expect others to read their minds and know in advance how they're feeling. If you fail to "predict" them, they may accuse you of being insensitive, even though they haven't clearly expressed their feelings themselves, Grosso explains.