Scorpios are known for a few key traits, including their devotion and fierce loyalty. These are great qualities to seek in a friend or partner: You can rely on a Scorpio to have your back and be there for you when you need them. However, this water sign's fierceness can also be redirected toward their loved ones if provoked in conversation. According to astrologers, to avoid this, there are a few things you should never say to a Scorpio.
"When communicating with Scorpios, every word carries weight," Raquel Rodriguez, astrologer and founder of Your Zodiac, tells Best Life. "You need to be mindful of what you say to Scorpios because of their deep and intense personality. Scorpios possess heightened sensitivity and sharp intuition. They can easily pick up on subtle cues and hidden meanings behind words. This heightened sensitivity means that your choice of words can have a profound impact on their emotions and how they perceive you."
Rodriguez adds that the right words can bolster your relationship with a Scorpio, but if you choose the wrong words, you can also "stir up their passionate nature or even wound them deeply." So, if you have a Scorpio in your life, read on for the seven phrases you should avoid in conversation with them.
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1 | "You're too intense/obsessive."
iStockScorpios are inherently driven, and they don't want to feel judged for their dedication or devotion to something.
"Scorpios possess an intense and passionate nature, which is an integral part of their personality," Rodriguez says. "Therefore, labeling them as 'too intense' makes them feel misunderstood or judged."
Things become a bit more complex when this intensity is misconstrued as obsession, according to Rachel Clare, an astrologer at Mysticsense.
"Their ruling planet, Pluto, signifies fixation and transformation. When they set their sights on a goal or a person, their determination can be mistaken for obsession," Clare explains. "However, it is essential to recognize that Scorpios are passionate beings who invest themselves fully in what they care about. It's important to encourage balance and support their pursuits without judgment."
2 | "You're so stubborn."
fizkes / ShutterstockAccording to Clare, Scorpio is one of the four "fixed" signs—those that fall in the middle of each season—which gives them a more strong-willed approach to life. But even so, Scorpios aren't interested in hearing anything about their notorious stubbornness.
"Scorpios' fixed modality gives them a determined and persistent nature. This trait can manifest as stubbornness in certain situations," Clare says. "However, it's important to recognize that their stubbornness often stems from their passion and commitment."
Instead of simply telling a Scorpio they're being stubborn, Clare recommends having "open dialogue" to find common ground and work through any disagreements or conflicts.
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3 | "Let's forget about it."
Anatoliy Karlyuk / ShutterstockSome of us prefer to forgive and forget, but Scorpios tend to hold onto things longer than others. As such, they don't want to be told to move on before they're ready.
"'Let's forget about it' can be problematic when said to a Scorpio because they have a tendency to hold onto past experiences and emotions," Rodriguez says. "Scorpios are known for their introspective nature and their desire to delve into deeper meanings."
She adds, "Dismissing or brushing aside a situation can be perceived as disregarding their need for emotional exploration."
4 | "Why are you so sensitive?"
ShutterstockAs a water sign, Scorpios are in touch with their emotions and very intuitive, according to Clare. But even though they're in touch with their feelings, Scorpios don't want to be asked why they're emotional.
"Dismissing their emotions as being 'too sensitive' disregards their natural inclination to feel deeply and connect emotionally with others," Clare says. "Validating their feelings and providing a supportive environment can foster healthier interactions."
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5 | "Let's get it done my way."
fizkes / ShutterstockAnother defining Scorpio trait is independence. So, if you want to lend a helping hand, don't just take control—ensure that they still feel included in the process.
"Scorpios value their autonomy and appreciate being involved in decision-making processes," Rodriguez says. "Imposing one's own way without considering their input may be perceived as controlling or dismissive of their opinions."
6 | "Let me do this for you."
YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV / ShutterstockOn a similar note, don't offer to do something for a Scorpio without having an open conversation first. According to Rodriguez, simply saying, "Let me do this for you," won't go over well.
"While offering assistance or support can be appreciated, this phrase may unintentionally undermine a Scorpio's sense of independence," she says. "The reason is that these words simply mean that you’re superior at something—and Scorpios have a strong sense of self and take pride in their individuality."
Rodriguez adds that Scorpios can't accept that they're unable to do something, and they'll perceive your offer—even if it's well-intended—as an "attack on their confidence."
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7 | You're too controlling.
iStockClare points out that Scorpios also seek control, which may be why they don't just hand over the reins when you offer to assist them.
"Scorpios have a natural desire for control, driven by their fixed modality and their ruling planet Pluto's association with power," she says. "Their symbol, the Scorpion, also embodies a sense of control and self-protection."
As such, if they rebuff you, you might be tempted to tell a Scorpio they're "too controlling." But before you do, Clare suggests taking a step back.
"While excessive control can be challenging in some situations, it's crucial to understand that Scorpios' need for control is a part of their astrological makeup," she says.