It’s not what you say, it is how it is heard. People take in messages based on their previous experiences. Some words might trigger a reaction. You might have said something that hit on a nerve or sensitivity. Some words have connotations to someone that you may not even realize.

If someone has an adverse reaction that you didn’t expect, apologize for upsetting them. Your words – no matter your intention – did hurt them in some way. And learn for the future to be more sensitive in that area. “I’m sorry for my words that hurt you, I will be more careful when talking about this.”