Self-defeating declarations
When we inadvertently convey the opposite of what we really mean
Jeffrey Denny
Is there a term for saying something that instantly undermines our intended meaning — or even conveys the opposite? For example, when President Donald J. Trump had to set the record straight and declare that he’s a “very stable genius,” critics claimed it’s proof he is not.
But in defense of our President, we make (and hear) such inadvertently self-negating statements all the time and we just accept it. Here are a few common examples:
“No, goddamn it, I’m not being defensive.”
“Of course I didn’t forget our anniversary.”
“I’ll be just a minute.”
“Yes, honey, I know what I’m doing.”
“100% fresh, natural spring water bottled at the source.”
“Your call is important to us. The next available representative will be with you shortly.”
“The allegations of sexual misconduct are wholly without merit.”
“This won’t hurt a bit.”
“Your data security is our priority.”
“Im a terrific speller.”
“The CEO is departing the company effective immediately to spend more time with his family.”
“The president has full confidence in [Flynn/Priebus/Sessions/Tillerson/new FBI director/his Cabinet/TBD].”
“Libtard elits are, stupit think they so smart.”
“The Democratic Party’s national political strategy is ….”
“I am not a crook.”
“The phony Trump/Russia ‘collusion’ doesn’t exist. Witch hunt!”
Jeffrey Denny is a Washington writer.
