10 Phrases to Shut Down a Narcissist

Narcissists are the masters of making you second-guess your sanity and, occasionally, your WiFi password.

Ever found yourself backed into a conversational corner, wondering how you became the villain in your own story? Welcome to the club—snacks are on the left, solidarity on the right.

If conversation with a narcissist leaves you feeling like you’ve just wrestled a greased pig, you’re not alone. There are ways to stop their mind games without losing yours.

These ten phrases may not work miracles, but they’ll certainly help you regain control. Or, at the very least, your dignity.

1. I’m not going to discuss this with you

It’s a classic for a reason. When a narcissist starts baiting you or spinning the subject like a DJ with a grudge, sometimes the best move is to withhold your attention.

No drama, no explanations—just a verbal brick wall. Watch as they try to scale it, unsuccessfully. The idea isn’t to be rude, but to refuse to dance the same exhausting tango again. Spoiler: They hate it.

2. That’s your opinion

Narcissists love presenting their beliefs as the only possible truth, usually with the fervor of a late-night infomercial. This phrase gently but firmly puts their “facts” back in the opinion basket.

No need to argue, defend, or explain. Three words later, you’ve acknowledged their right to an opinion without accepting it as gospel. Cue the confusion.

3. I see things differently

Gaslighting, meet your match. This phrase signals that you’re not buying what they’re selling, and you’re not in the market for self-doubt today.

It’s assertive without being aggressive. Narcissists thrive on your agreement (or your fight). This phrase gives them neither—just a polite, unshakeable boundary.

4. We’ll have to agree to disagree

Once upon a time, this phrase was the stuff of awkward dinner parties. Against a narcissist, it’s pure gold.

There’s no invitation for debate, no opening for manipulation, and certainly no hint that you’re going to stick around for their next monologue. Just agreement to disagree—and then moving on, with or without their blessing.

5. I need some space right now

Boundaries may as well be written in invisible ink as far as narcissists are concerned. Stating your need for space draws a line they can’t ignore (though heaven knows they’ll try).

Notice this isn’t a negotiation. It’s a declaration. Take that walk. Hide in the loo. Tell them you’re charging your phone. You don’t need to justify it—just claim your space and watch the magic happen.

6. I won’t tolerate being spoken to like that

Narcissists have a sixth sense for finding which buttons to push—and a seventh for pretending they didn’t do it. This phrase is your emergency stop button.

It’s specific, it’s non-negotiable, and (most importantly) it’s about their behavior, not their entire personality. Resist the urge to explain or apologize. Just state it. Repeat as needed.

7. That’s not how I remember it

Ever had a story retold by a narcissist and wondered if you’d blacked out for the interesting bits? This phrase calls out their revisionist history without inviting a World War III reenactment.

There’s no accusation, just a subtle nudge that you’re aware of the facts—and immune to gaslighting. It’s the conversational equivalent of a polite eyebrow raise.

8. I’m not responsible for your feelings

Narcissists would love nothing more than to make you the emotional janitor of their lives. This phrase is the ultimate hands-off notice.

Compassion doesn’t mean carrying their baggage. Set it down, gently but firmly. Watch as they struggle to hand it back to you (they will), and resist the urge to pick it up.

9. That’s not acceptable to me

Standards: they’re not just for baked goods and WiFi speeds. Narcissists loathe boundaries, especially when they’re clear, calm, and unmovable.

This phrase signals that your values aren’t up for negotiation. No need for a PowerPoint on why—just let it stand. If they argue, repeat it like a broken record. Eventually, even the loudest narcissist gets bored.

10. I’ve made my decision

Narcissists thrive when you second-guess yourself—bonus points if you do it out loud. This phrase shuts down their endless attempts to sway, guilt, or badger you into submission.

It’s the conversational version of closing your laptop mid-Zoom call: abrupt, final, and deeply satisfying. They may protest, but you’re done. End scene.

Why These Phrases Work When Nothing Else Does

If you’ve ever tried logic, empathy, or the silent treatment on a narcissist, you know it’s like teaching a cat algebra. These phrases work because they’re designed to do three things: protect your boundaries, end circular debates, and reclaim your peace.

Notice the theme—no long-winded speeches, no emotional appeals, no elaborate defenses. The less oxygen you give their drama, the sooner the fire goes out.

You’re not responsible for fixing, saving, or even enlightening a narcissist. Your only job is to keep your sanity intact and your self-respect polished.

Using Your New Toolkit

Testing these phrases might feel awkward at first, especially if you’re used to tiptoeing around conflict like it’s a Lego minefield. Expect pushback. Expect theatrics. Maybe even an Oscar-worthy performance.

Stick with it. Boundaries are like muscles: a bit shaky at first, then unbreakable.

Practice in front of your mirror. Or your dog—judgment-free zone. Start small, then work your way up to the big leagues.

When to Walk Away

Not every battle is worth fighting. If a narcissist makes good on their promise to “never speak to you again,” take a bow. You’ve achieved the rarest of victories.

If you ever feel unsafe, go straight for backup: friends, family, or your favorite therapist. There’s zero shame in asking for help.

The bravest thing you can do is refuse to let narcissistic chaos set the tone in your life.

Taking Your Power Back

These ten phrases won’t transform your narcissist into a reasonable human being overnight—if only. But they’ll help you shut down the spin, step off the emotional rollercoaster, and remember who’s really in charge of your life.

And if you forget? That’s alright.

There’s always next time, and you’ve got plenty of witty comebacks locked and loaded.