The passive-aggressiveness meter (Score)
10 real-life-flavored notes and messages, scored on an escalation rubric from a plain, sincere statement to full passive-aggressive weaponry — sorted worst-to-best once you run it.
Try your own
“Hey! Just a friendly reminder that the dishes are in the sink. No worries, whenever you get a chance :)”
Slack DM to a teammate
“Thanks so much for finally taking out the trash!! Really appreciate you stepping up.”
Reply-all email
“Great job on the report this quarter. Solid, clear work.”
Performance review comment
“Per my last email, the meeting is at 3pm.”
Meeting follow-up email
“Sure, I'll just redo the whole thing myself then, since apparently that's easier for everyone.”
Group chat after a mix-up
“I love how you always leave your dishes for ME to clean up. So thoughtful of you.”
Roommate note on the fridge
“Happy to help anytime you need, seriously!”
Text to a friend
“Wow, must be nice to leave early every day while the rest of us stay late.”
Office kitchen sign
“Just checking in on the status of this — whenever you have a moment, no pressure!”
Slack DM checking on a task
“Oh, you're alive! Good to know, I guess.”
Text after being left on read