Direct Challenges
What are you talking about? – A direct and abrupt challenge to the other person’s statement. You don’t know what you’re talking about. – A clear assertion that the speaker lacks knowledge on the subject.
Questioning the Validity of the Argument
You don’t have a leg to stand on. – Suggests the person’s argument lacks supporting evidence. You haven’t got a leg to stand on. – Similar to the above, emphasizing the weakness of the argument.
Accusing of Ignorance or Lack of Understanding
You don’t know the first thing about it. – Implies a complete lack of knowledge or understanding of the topic.
Accusing of Exaggeration or Deception
You’re really stretching the truth. – Suggests the person is exaggerating or being dishonest. You’re way off base. – Indicates the person’s statement is completely incorrect or irrelevant.
Dismissing the Argument
You can lay that notion to rest. – A definitive rejection of the idea or argument.
Note: These phrases vary in intensity and politeness. Some are more confrontational (e.g., “What are you talking about?”), while others are more indirect (e.g., “You’re really stretching the truth.”). The appropriate phrase depends on the context of the conversation and the relationship between the speakers.
