Words
People tell you what they mean with simple short sentences. With basic words. With grievances about what they didn't do, they explain it as if everyone else holds those same feelings.
They let out their belief system through short statements and phrases. Clichés.
Or by statements that they may not say directly.
Even indirect phrases will give people's true feelings away.
If someone tells you that they value hard work, and then immediately state that many don't work hard enough.
Are they trying to tell you something about how they view you?
Perhaps they're trying to tell you that you are included in their assessment of this statement.
Keep this in mind when they say something that could be pointed towards someone, because those small jabs are indirect for a reason.
But they aren't really about you. So don't feel bad. Simply notice quietly.
They're about what they think you are.
Most importantly, these statements show that the person believes that they are above your reasoning, that they are superior.
But they're not, nobody is. But pay attention to what others do and don't say.