Most people these days rely on text messages as their main form of communication; for some, the thought of making a phone call is even scary. That said, since a text can’t capture one’s body language and nonverbal cues, it is easy for certain messages to come across as condescending or blatantly rude.

“Condescension isn’t just about words but making another person feel small,” said Logan Jones, a licensed clinical psychologist and founder atClarity Therapy NYC. “Text messages feel condescending when one person assumes superiority, implies incompetence, feels dismissive or [gives] unnecessary explanations.”

We spoke with licensed mental health professionals about common text messages you may not realise are condescending ― and how not to take them personally should you be on the receiving end. Here’s what experts say:

1. “K”

We’ve all likely sent this at least once, whether it was intentionally to someone who annoyed us or when we simply didn’t feel like answering.

Bottom line: “It feels short, dismissive, and passive aggressive and implies annoyance or disinterest because it lacks any warmth and engagement,” said Lauren Palumbo, a licensed psychotherapist at Clarity Therapy NYC.

2. A thumbs-up

According to Palumbo, simply “thumbs-upping” or “liking” a text message can feel condescending in its own right, especially if you just shared a juicy or personal story and were hoping for a reaction that matches your energy.

“These types of reactions can stop conversational momentum dead in its tracks, making it clear that others aren’t interested in keeping it going, which can feel disappointing and deflating,” she said.

3. “No........

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