Catchphrases Every Parent Says
Growing up, our parents said a lot of things to us. We probably don't remember most of it, but some phrases were repeated so often we can recite them word for word. From "I'm just resting my eyes" to "because I said so," here are 10 expressions every dad says and 10 every mom says.
1. What's The Damage?
Said by every dad, ever. You'll usually hear this phrase when the bill comes, but dads will say this in every situation, on any occasion. It might even be used in place of "what's the problem?"
2. Keep Your Eyes On The Ball
When you're lacking motivation or losing focus, dads often know just what to say to bring you back on track. Sure, it might sound cliché in the moment, but it's a reminder to ground yourself and shoot for success.
3. You're Going Out Like That?
Girl dads are more likely to say this, but boy dads use it, too. Not dressing for the weather? Too much skin? Switching up styles? You're bound to hear this one.
4. I'm Just Resting My Eyes
No, he's not sleeping… he's just resting his eyes. Even though it's obvious they were catching some shut-eye, dads will still say this as if it somehow negates the whole thing.
5. Don't Tell Your Mother
Keeping a secret from your mom is probably not the wisest thing to do. But if your dad just bought you the thing she didn't want you to have, well… what she doesn't know won't hurt her, right?
6. No, I'm More Handsome
Don't ever ask your dad if someone is handsome—he'll probably wave you off and claim he's more handsome. You're better off pitching the question to your mom instead.
7. Money Doesn't Grow On Trees
While true, dads sometimes say this so often it can be annoying. It's something we understand as adults (and probably say ourselves now), but back then, as kids, we probably didn't grasp the full weight of the meaning.
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8. Let's Rock and Roll
"Let's go"? No, that's boring. It's "let's rock and roll," according to all dads everywhere. You might also hear this phrase used as encouragement, in lieu of "good luck."
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9. Who's This 'Friend' Of Yours?
Dads are protective; we know this. You tell them you're just going out with a friend, and then they bombard you with a million questions, the standout one being, "Who's this 'friend' of yours?" It might peeve you in the moment, but they're just looking out for you.
10. Ask Your Mother
When dads don't want to take responsibility, they'll shift it to someone else—most often to moms. That, or they'll say this just to get you out of their hair. Either way, you're going to have to ask another person.
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Now that we've covered 10 classic phrases used by dads, let's jump into the 10 most common expressions all moms say.
1. I Brought You Into This World, And I'll Just As Soon Take You Out
Moms do have a point with this one—they did give birth to us. Whatever prompted her to say this, try to see the situation from her perspective. You might realize later that you were out of line.
2. I'm Going To Count To Three…
We've all heard this one. This is when you know your mom really had enough of your antics. Before she starts the dreaded countdown, you better get moving.
3. When You Have Kids, You'll Understand
Have you ever heard the phrase, "Raising kids is a full-time job"? Think back to when you were young. Were you more of a troublemaker, or did you listen dutifully to your parents? Moms are right: you'll get what it's like once you have kids of your own.
4. Because I Said So
It might sound like an empty threat with no real consequences, but you know not to push it if you hear this one. Sometimes, you just have to listen to your mom and do it. If you talk back, you'll either get the look or the countdown.
5. Don't Make Me Repeat Myself
This is another one you might hear if you talk back. Moms usually have a group of escalating phrases, depending on the response you give. Unless what she's asking of you is unfair, it's best not to argue.
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6. Just Try One Bite
We get it: some foods look unappetizing and we might not want to touch it with a 10-foot pole. But don't judge a book by its cover. If you don't try it, you'll never know if it's good. Who knows? It could become your new favorite dish.
7. If Your Friends Jumped Off A Bridge, Would You?
This expression sounds ridiculous since it's extreme, but when your mom says this, she's only looking out for you. She wouldn't want you to do anything you're not comfortable with, and neither should you feel pressured to do anything because your friends are doing it.
8. Were You Raised By Wolves?
You'll usually hear this when you're lacking manners or making a mess. If you tend to leave things strewn about, do your mom a favor and tidy up.
9. Did You Finish All Your Homework?
You're in the middle of playing your favorite video game when your mom pops in and asks this question. While it stinks to have your fun cut short, do your homework if you haven't already. Otherwise, your mom will come storming back with more to say.
10. Ask Your Father
Moms might say this to shift responsibility. But more often than not, they mean it as a warning: they're expecting dads to read the room and say no. Sometimes, it's just because they need a break from being the voice of reason.
