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ClearCommunicationAppDecode Communication
Sarcasm & Humor
No offense, but...
Preface to criticism or potentially hurtful comments
Literal Meaning
No: absence; offense: breach of law; but: introduces a contrasting statement.
Actual Meaning
What follows will likely be offensive - this disclaimer doesn't prevent offense
Examples in Context

Coworker: 'No offense, but your presentation needs work.' (Translation: I'm about to criticize you)

Helpful Tips
  • 1Brace for criticism
  • 2The disclaimer doesn't help
  • 3Consider if you want to hear it
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
no disrespect intended
with all due respect
no hard feelings
Related Phrases
Click to explore related phrases in our collection
Well, excuse me
It is what it is
Just saying