We all have been there. You are passionately explaining something to someone and they reply with the most annoying and insensitive response of all time: “Duh!”. Not only is it plain rude, but it also shows they think you just stated the obvious in a somewhat stupid way.
This frustrating two-word response can ruin your mood in seconds. I still remember how I felt when my best friend said “Duh!” when I told her I had a crush on the cute guy from math class. I was embarrassed and upset.
After that incident, I made a list of savage yet witty responses for the next time someone decides to be a jerk and say “duh” to something I say.
Below are some of my all-time favorite comebacks that will leave them speechless!
30 Savage Ways To Respond After Someone Says “Duh”
Before we get started, I want to clarify that my responses below are mostly lighthearted comebacks. I don’t actually recommend saying something really hurtful or getting into an intense argument over a petty “duh“.
However, putting them in their place with a clever or funny reply can prevent it from happening again!
So without further ado, here are 30 ways to respond when someone says “duh” to you:
If I wanted the opinion of an idiot, I would have asked.
I apologize for assuming you were bright enough to not already know that.
My bad, I’ll try to dumb it down for you next time.
I didn’t realize I was speaking to a child.
Congrats on pointing out the obvious Captain Obvious.
Wow way to state the obvious. Want a cookie?
No duh, Sherlock.
Thank you so much for that valuable insight.
I can explain it to you again using smaller words if you’d like.
I didn’t realize I was speaking to someone with such low IQ.
If I throw a stick, will you go away?
I’m sorry, did I somehow give you the impression that I value your opinion?
Please grace me with more of your wisdom. No really, “duh” just wasn’t enough.
You must feel so proud of yourself for being so clever and pointing that out.
Stop trying so desperately to seem smart. It’s not working.
Do me a favor and never procreate.
If your goal is to sound like an idiot, congrats you’ve succeeded.
Wow, nothing gets past you Sherlock.
Thank you Captain Obvious for your very valuable input.
I apologize for not dumbing it down enough for you.
Congrats on knowing that super obvious piece of information. You must feel so special.
Wow, low IQ and rude. You hit the idiot jackpot!
When I want your opinion I’ll give it to you.
I’d agree with you but then we’d both be wrong.
Your genius astounds me.
I’d insult you but nature did a good enough job.
Were you born this stupid or did you take lessons?
If ignorance is bliss, you must be the happiest person on earth.
I’d explain it to you, but I left my English to Idiot dictionary at home.
Please tell me you don’t plan on reproducing.
I know some of those comebacks are really savage, but they get the point across. Maybe next time that person will think twice before saying “duh”!
Now let’s move on to more funny and lighthearted ways to respond.
10 Funny Ways To Respond After Someone Says “Duh”
Here are 10 funny comebacks when someone rudely says “duh” to you:
- Duh to you too.
- Cry me a river, build me a bridge, and get over it.
- If I wanted a bitchy reply, I would’ve asked your mother.
- I bet your brain feels as good as new, seeing that you never use it.
- I’m not ignoring you; I’m just giving you time to reflect on how dumb your “duh” comment was.
- Please tell me: how does it feel to be constantly neglected by your brain?
- I don’t engage with lost causes or hopeless situations. And talking to you seems to fall in both categories.
- I’d slap you but I don’t want to make your face look any better.
- Arguing with a genius is hard. Arguing with you is pointless.
- I refuse to engage in a battle of wits with someone who is clearly unarmed.
As you can see, funny comebacks don’t have to be over-the-top mean. A bit of sarcasm and wittiness is enough to get your point across that their “duh” was uncalled for.
Next up: flirty ways to respond when someone says “duh” to you.
Flirty Ways To Respond After Someone Says “Duh”
If someone you like says “duh” to you in a teasing way, here are some cute flirty responses:
- If I’m stating the obvious, I guess you were already aware of how cute I think you are? Duh!
- Aww don’t be rude to me or I may just have to punish you…
- Okay Mr. Genius, maybe you should give me private lessons if I’m so clueless.
- Duh yourself, cutie.
- Omg slow down with the genius remarks…you’re making me blush over here!
- No need to show off how smart you are. I’m already impressed 😉
- Wow, beauty and brains. How did I get so lucky?
- Are you trying to impress me with your “duh” remarks? Because it’s working.
- If acting like a know-it-all is your way of flirting, it’s very cute.
- A boy who can make me laugh is trouble…good thing I like trouble.
Flirting back is always a good response if you know they didn’t mean anything rude by saying “duh” to you. It instantly lightens the mood and brings the spark back!
10 Best Editor’s Choice Responses for When Someone Says “Duh”
Out of all the comebacks and responses recommended so far, these are my 10 absolute favorite ways to react when someone says “duh” to you:
If I Throw a Stick, Will You Go Away?
This clever comeback implies the other person is annoying like a little dog chasing a stick. It’s the perfect blend of funny, witty and savage without going overboard.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| The person saying “duh” is being rude for no good reason | If it’s said in a friendly, teasing way |
| If you want to subtly call them out without things getting too heated | When you actually want constructive conversation |
Do Me a Favor and Never Procreate
This response suggests the “duh” remark was so stupid that this person should seriously not have children. It often leaves them speechless.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| When you are very angry at their arrogant and demeaning attitude | Casual conversations with friends/family |
| If the person repeatedly puts others down to inflate their own ego | Where permanant damage to the relationship could occur |
Duh Yourself, Cutie
Flirt back confidently if it was said in a playful, teasing manner. This shows you can keep up with their banter.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| Friendly back-and-forth teasing with someone you like | Condescending, rude remarks said in spite |
| Lighten the mood after an unintentionally insensitive “duh” | Serious arguments or debates |
Please Tell Me: How Does it Feel to be Constantly Neglected by Your Brain?
This witty remark is guaranteed to hit them where it hurts – their intelligence. It’s a clever way to point out the stupidity of their “duh” response.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| When you need to stand up for yourself without losing your cool | Joking around with close friends |
| If the person is repeatedly condescending despite polite requests to stop |
I Apologize for Assuming You Were Bright Enough to Not Already Know That
This comeback hits hard by very clearly suggesting the other person has lower intelligence, unable to grasp simple concepts without stating it outright.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| When someone continues to act arrogantly superior after being asked to stop | With close friends where no true offense was intended |
| To subtly take overconfident people down a notch | In important professional settings |
Thank You, Captain Obvious, For Your Very Valuable Input
The sarcasm is strong with this witty response. It mocks their unneeded “duh” statement by acting like it was an amazing discovery.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| When you need to get your point across that the “duh” was rude and unnecessary | Actual intellectual discussions where you want constructive debate |
| Casual conversations where no real offense was meant | With authority figures deserving of respect |
Were You Born This Stupid or Did You Take Lessons?
This straightforward insult suggests they lack basic intelligence on a natural level. It’s important to only use this if you are comfortable with the likely resulting conflict.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| When standing up to unrelenting verbal bullies | Polite discussions where no harm was meant |
| If you don’t mind escalating tensions with the other person | First offense mild annoyances |
Please Explain it to Me Like I’m Five
Sarcastically asking them to explain it to you “like you’re five” makes them feel intellectually superior for a moment, then highlights the immaturity of their “duh” response.
| When to Use | When NOT to Use |
|---|---|
| Back-and-forth banter with friends | Conversations wanting genuine growth/understanding |
| Defusing tension after an unintentionally offensive “duh” | Official work meetings requiring utmost professionalism |
How to Respond to a Girl Who Says “Duh”
When a girl says “duh” to you here are the best ways to react:
If She’s Interested in You
Flirt back!
Examples:
- Well excuse me for trying to have an intelligent conversation with the prettiest girl in the room.
- Wow even when being rude you manage to look cute!
If She Seems Annoyed by You
Apologize sincerely or politely leave her alone.
Examples:
- I’m sorry if I said something stupid. I didn’t mean to annoy you.
- I’ll stop bothering you now. Have a nice day!
If She’s Dismissing Your Opinion
Stand up for yourself respectfully.
Examples:
- I’m happy to discuss this further, but the dismissive “duh” isn’t necessary. My standpoint is valid too.
- I apologize if my opinion came off stupid or obvious to you. Can we talk about this in a polite way?
The key is responding tactfully – never aggressively argue. It often worsens the situation.
How to Respond to a Guy Who Says “Duh”
And for the guys, here’s how to react smoothly:
If He’s Teasing You
Tease back!
Examples:
- Well excuse me Mr. Know-It-All!
- Someone’s trying extra hard to seem cool 😝
If He Seems Truly Arrogant
Stand up for yourself while avoiding confrontation.
Examples:
- I don’t appreciate the mocking tone. I’d be happy to discuss this politely if you lose the attitude.
- I expressed my thoughts sincerely. The dismissive “duh” wasn’t called for.
If He Shows a Romantic Interest in You
Flirt back!
Examples:
- If you’re trying to impress me, it’s working! But no need to show off 😉
- Acting extra smart won’t make me fall for you…but you just being your cute self will!
The main thing is not to lose your cool. Kill tension with humor and wit whenever appropriate. If that fails, politely stand up for yourself or walk away.
Conclusion: Don’t Let the “Duh’s” Get You Down!
Being on the receiving end of a condescending “duh” can really kill your vibe. Hopefully this article gave you plenty of clever responses to use next time it happens!
Just remember – the best comebacks stay confident and witty without losing your cool.
So practice some of these savage yet hysterical reactions beforehand to always be prepared with the perfect sassy retort!