You’re searching for how to respond to sexually inappropriate comments—but you don’t want to sound too harsh or too soft. Maybe you’re in a formal setting, texting a friend, or navigating a professional environment. The moment you land on this article, your search ends. We’ve broken down 120+ respectful, firm, and clear alternatives based on tone and situation.
Different settings call for different words. Below, you’ll find clear ways to handle inappropriate comments—whether you need to stay professional, set a strong boundary, or shut it down casually but effectively.
Formal Ways to Say How to Respond to Sexually Inappropriate Comments
These are best used in official complaints, emails, or public workplace settings.
- I do not find that comment appropriate
- That language is unprofessional and unwelcome
- Please refrain from making personal remarks
- Your comment is inappropriate in this setting
- I expect respectful and appropriate communication
- That was uncalled for and should not be repeated
- I am uncomfortable with that kind of talk
- Kindly keep your comments professional
- That is not an acceptable way to speak to me
- Please maintain a respectful tone
- This crosses a professional boundary
- I must ask you not to speak to me that way again
- I will be reporting this behavior
- That comment is offensive and disrespectful
- I find that remark inappropriate and unnecessary
- Let’s keep the conversation on topic
- I prefer we stick to work-related matters
- This kind of comment is not tolerated here
- I’m not okay with what you just said
- I expect to be treated with respect
- Let’s keep our communication respectful and appropriate
- I do not welcome remarks of that nature
- This is not an appropriate forum for such comments
- Please be mindful of your language
- That’s not something I’m comfortable hearing
- I’m setting a boundary around comments like that
- I request that you not make such remarks again
- That comment is not suitable for this environment
- I take offense to that remark
- I will be following up with HR regarding this interaction
Informal Ways to Say How to Respond to Sexually Inappropriate Comments
Use these when speaking with someone you know casually or in social settings.
- Not cool, don’t say stuff like that
- That’s way out of line
- I don’t like that kind of talk
- Back off, that’s not okay
- You really need to stop saying things like that
- That made me uncomfortable
- I’m not here for creepy comments
- Can you not? That’s gross
- Stop—it’s not funny
- That’s not a compliment, it’s disrespectful
- Don’t talk to me like that
- Ew, no thanks
- That’s not something you should say
- Chill with the inappropriate stuff
- I don’t appreciate that kind of joke
- I’m not okay with that
- That just crossed the line
- That’s not the vibe
- Keep it respectful, please
- Watch what you’re saying
- That’s really not funny
- Let’s not go there
- That’s a hard no from me
- You’re being way too inappropriate
- Keep your comments to yourself
- You need to check your behavior
- Say that again and we’re done
- That’s not something I want to hear
- Stop talking to me like that
- Not gonna entertain that
Idiomatic Ways to Say How to Respond to Sexually Inappropriate Comments
These responses use figurative or expressive language for firm yet colorful boundaries.
- That’s crossing a line
- Check yourself before you wreck yourself
- That’s not the hill you want to die on
- Zip it with the creepy talk
- You just stepped into the danger zone
- You’re skating on thin ice
- That’s not how you shoot your shot
- Walk it back before it gets worse
- You’re barking up the wrong tree
- Pull it back before it gets reported
- You’re digging yourself into a hole
- That’s not how adults flirt
- You’re way out of pocket
- That was not it, chief
- Rein it in
- You’re toeing a line you don’t want to cross
- That’s not cute, it’s cringe
- That joke missed the mark
- Don’t go there
- You need to dial it way back
- You’ve said too much already
- That comment needs to be left at the door
- You’re stepping on toes
- Better cool it
- That’s a no-fly zone
- You’re not reading the room
- I’m not the one—don’t try it
- You’re playing with fire
- That’s not banter, that’s harassment
- Keep it classy, not creepy
Professional Ways to Say How to Respond to Sexually Inappropriate Comments
Use these in the workplace, emails, meetings, or conversations where keeping a calm tone is key.
- I’d like to maintain a respectful work environment
- That type of comment is not appropriate at work
- Let’s keep the discussion professional
- I don’t think that remark belongs here
- Please refrain from making personal comments
- I’m setting a boundary with that kind of talk
- That statement was inappropriate for this setting
- I’m not comfortable with that comment
- Professional communication is expected at all times
- I’d appreciate more respectful language moving forward
- Let’s keep our interactions workplace-appropriate
- That crossed a professional boundary
- I prefer we stay focused on work matters
- That kind of language isn’t suitable here
- I expect professionalism in all our conversations
- I’d like to redirect this conversation
- Your comment was inappropriate and unnecessary
- That’s not acceptable workplace behavior
- I’m reporting this incident to the appropriate department
- I don’t tolerate comments of that nature
- I’d like to keep our dialogue constructive and respectful
- Your language makes me uncomfortable
- This comment will be documented
- That kind of talk creates a hostile environment
- I will need to escalate this if it continues
- That doesn’t align with our code of conduct
- Please be mindful of professional boundaries
- This isn’t a personal conversation, let’s stay on topic
- I take this very seriously
- I expect better from a colleague
Conclusion
Knowing how to respond to sexually inappropriate comments is a skill that protects your boundaries while promoting respect. Whether you’re in a formal environment, social setting, or just standing up for yourself, your words matter. The 120+ phrases above help you respond with confidence, clarity, and control—no matter the tone you need.
