Diminishing language.

Ahhhh, it was nothing.

Do you use diminishing language or minimizing words?

“The ability to communicate effectively and confidently has a dramatic effect on our ability to advance our careers. Yet many of us fall into the trap of using weak language that sabotages our efforts to present ourselves with authority and confidence.”

— Bonnie Marcus in 'Do You Sabotage Yourself by Using Weak Language?' for Forbes

Here are some examples of diminishing language or minimizing words and what to say instead.

Eliminate diminishing language and minimizing words from your vocabulary. In doing so, people will see you as confident and you will be more successful.