Linguists, HR departments, and men named Steve have confirmed that certain words, though technically compliments, are actually as patronizing as a pat on the head. Here are some phrases to avoid:

'Bossy': Used for women who express opinions, unlike men who are 'decisive'. It's often said when a woman asks a man to do his job.

'Formidable': For impressive women, because 'impressive' is reserved for men. A woman is formidable if she juggles everything while focusing on her kids.

'Firecracker': A woman who speaks up more than once in a meeting is called a firecracker, suggesting she's energetic and potentially wild.

'Feisty': A woman who disagrees without apologizing or crying. Overlaps with 'unexpectedly angry for someone small'.

'Girlboss': A 48-year-old man isn't a 'boyboss'. It implies a woman's success is a phase, patronizingly acknowledging her achievements.

'Badass': She's competent but cute, possibly with a tongue piercing that might 'benefit' during intimacy. Men think she's also nurturing.

'Whip-smart': Clever, as long as it doesn't make others feel stupid. Often surprises with intelligence because it wasn't expected.

'High-maintenance': She has standards, unlike men who just need respect and support. Might have Botox rather than staying naturally ageless.

'Trailblazer': A woman in a male-dominated field is pioneering. Men applaud her bravery, then ask her to organize meetings.

'Spunky': Should've been retired in 1987, suggests enthusiasm and defiance. Indicates she got the better of a man in banter.

'Clever little cookie': No intelligent man is called a 'cookie'. An Oxford professor named David isn't described as 'surprisingly sharp'.