You may never think of hurling a stick or stone at your partner, but make no mistake: words are dangerous. Even more important to recognize when in a relationship, we all tend to use words when we're hurt or angry. In fact, words are the most common weapon we reach for when emotions run high.

Due to the human nature of rapid-firing verbalized raw emotion, unfortunately, your partner can be on the receiving end of some really hard blows. Also unfortunate, sometimes, words can lead to distrust, harbored resentment, and even an irreparable rift or a breakup.

Hurtful words sometimes slip out before you can catch them, but, usually, there is a slight moment of introspection between when you point and aim and the shot from your tongue. In these tiny moments, make sure you're checking your words for critical injury potential. Some phrases are extremely difficult to remedy after they've landed.

Generalizations can feel unfairly accusatory and highly dismissive. They make the other person feel misunderstood and judged, which can spark immediate defensiveness but also hinder open communication in the long term, ultimately damaging the relationship.........

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