The Stupidity of Declaring To Be Honest (without being asked)

I am sure that many people do not listen to what comes out of their own mouths.

I was listening to an interview with the Canadian minister of the environment (secretary of the environment in the USA) the other day and I am sure he was not listening to what he was saying. Two examples. He spoke of “fighting” global warming. Then another cabinet minister spoke at great length of his government's intent to“fight” inflation.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not an anal person but I do think words matter. If I had the opportunity, I would ask the minister how he planned on fighting global warming and inflation. What weapons was he planning on using? Why do agencies have to weaponize everything? Is this verbiage a North American thing or does it exist in other countries?

I can understand bringing in legislation to reduce global warming and inflation — but fighting it? How did he plan on fighting it? I can understand fighting a war. Other than using fighting in that context, I fail to grasp how one fights inflation, poverty, road deaths, etc.

However, I digress. One of the most stupid terms in everyday conversations that people use that really gets my goat is the following with variations on its use.

When asked a question, a person will respond with: “To be quite honest …….” or “to be honest with you ……………………….”

Why do they need to declare what they are going to say as being honest? Is everything else they say bullshit? Are you guilty of this stupid expression? If so, why the need to declare what you are going to say as being honest or what you have said as being honest? Are you a shifty-eyed person and therefore feel you have a need to declare your honesty?

Other variations on this honesty theme are;

I’ll be quite frank, ………….

Frankly, …………….

I’ll be perfectly honest with you, …………..

Honestly? …………………

If I could be quite honest with you ……………………

Speaking honestly, ……………..

I know I am fighting a losing battle. The word “honest” or “honestly” has become so prevalent in everyday conversations that people use it without even thinking.

Where do you honestly stand on this matter?

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