In my experience the 3 little words “I’m not being … ”, (insert the relevant missing word of your choice) are often the precursor for an insult or other offensive comment.
- “I’m not being rude, but …”. Meaning – I am going to say something insulting. I am, however going to deny my intention to be rude.
- “With respect…”. Meaning – I have no respect for you or the ideas you are expressing. I am, however going to use those words as a figleaf to hide the fact I’m insulting you.
- “I’m not racist but …”. Meaning – I hold highly reprehensible views on race. I am, in fact a racist bigot.
- “Some of my best friends are …”. Meaning – I don’t like this particular group of people, however I hope to disguise this fact by using the forgoing words.
- “Its not you, its me …”. Meaning – It is (in my opinion) entirely down to you that this relationship (insert relevant example) isn’t working. I am, however going to let you down gently by pretending that it is all my fault.
Shakespeare’s words, “One may smile and be a villain” spring to mind.
K Morris - Poet 
On rereading this I see that it is not merely a case of 3 little words. The post ranged wider than that. That is what comes from posting after having just got out of bed …!
So subtle a comment that is meant to sting. Thanks for the post!
You are welcome. Thanks for commenting and following my blog. All the best. Kevin
Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t see subtle. I see a coiled snake before he springs. 😦
Always be wary of coiled snakes, particularly those which blend into the landscape! Thanks for your comment. Kevin
😀 😀 😀
Hey, love the Shakespeare quote at the end and I hate Shakespeare! Sums the topic up perfectly
Thanks for your comment and following my blog. I have a friend who would agree with your opinion of Shakespeare, (he believes that the plays are not very good). As for me,I think Shakespeare produced some wonderful writing – his “to be or not to be” lines in Hamlet and “all our tomorrows have lighted fools the way to dusty death” in Macbeth for example. However, as for the plays as a whole I am inclined to agree with your assessment of Shakespeare. Kevin
With all due respect…j/k 😉 lol Great post! Way to call out passive aggression at it’s best!
Many thanks for your comment and the compliment on my post. Best. Kevin
The villains usually have more reasons to smile… Ain’t it? ^.-
Great post, thanks for sharing. 🙂
Indeed they do! You are welcome for the share and thanks for commenting. Kevin