One of my biggest pet peeves is someone who describes a statement using the term honestly. Why? Because there is usually a hint of dishonesty to whatever is said. Its a bad habit if you do it and usually a sign of insecurity about a statement or a sign that you are not telling 100% of the truth. If you have to describe your statement as honestly it unusually means there might be a slight "white lie" in your statement.
This holds true especially in the World of Wall Street and politics. I here statements like this often on TV and it immediately tells me this person might be full of shit. Its a good thing to listen for if you are a contrarian investor. I tend to run for the hills and avoid a stock or company immediately if I hear management use this.
"Honestly, I really like it." "Honestly, I really don't know the answer." "Do you want my honest answer?"
Pay attention to the next time you hear it and ask yourself what hidden agenda that person who said it might have. Feel free to submit your examples below.
The other statement I am starting to not like is also . . . "Trust me".