12 Common Minnesota Phrases That Sound Nice but Are Actually Insults

'Minnesota Nice' is something we're known for in Minnesota. I believe 'Minnesota Nice' is true in two ways: Minnesotans are generally nice people, but also, Minnesotans can be very passive-aggressive.

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Minnesotans' being passive-aggressive is the theme of this story, actually! A classic Minnesotan is never blunt, can't get to the point, and always tiptoes around awkward situations.

Because of this, we've come up with phrases that may sound like we're being nice, but actually, it's an insult.

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Passive-Aggressive Phrases Minnesotans Use

You've heard the phrase 'bless your heart', right? It's most common in southern states. While it sounds sweet, 'bless your heart' is usually meant as an insult. If someone thinks you're being naive or stupid, they might say 'bless your heart'.

In Minnesota, we have phrases like that, too. Have you ever noticed them?

Minnesota Phrases That Sound Nice But Are Actually Insults

The Phrase: Oh, that's interesting.

What it Actually Means: That's ugly, tastes bad, stupid, etc.

The Phrase: That's one way to do it.

What it Actually Means: You're an idiot.

The Phrase: You're young yet.

What it Actually Means: You're just naive.

The Phrase: Well aren't you ambitious?

What it Actually Means: Why would you ever do something like that?

The Phrase: Ya don't say.

What it Actually Means: Another way to say you're an idiot.

The Phrase: I could never pull that off, but as long as you like it.

What it Actually Means: It's ugly, but I'm not going to say that to your face.

The Phrase: I suppose.

What it Actually Means: I really don't want to but I'm giving in.

The Phrase: We'll have to get together sometime!

What it Actually Means: We will actually never contact each other and both of us are totally ok with that.

The Phrase: Isn't that something?

What it Actually Means: It's hideous.

The Phrase: That's different.

What it Actually Means: Similar to 'that's interesting'. It's ugly, tastes bad, etc.

The Phrase: You go right ahead.

What it Actually Means: You're dumb for doing this but I won't stop you.

The Phrase: That's nice.

What it Actually Means: I'm not interested in this topic and I don't want to continue talking about it.

Of course, all of these could be used in a perfectly nice way, but it's all about HOW it's said. Listen for the inflection clues to see if the speaker is being sincere with you or not.