60+ Comebacks to “Takes One to Know One” That Will Leave Them Speechless

Table of Contents

Introduction 

“When someone says ‘Takes one to know one,’ flip the script with humor: ‘Well, I’ve been studying from the best, haven’t I?'”

In the world of witty comebacks, few retorts are as classic as “Takes one to know one.” This phrase, often used to deflect an insult, can leave you scrambling for a clever reply. Whether you’re dealing with a childhood friend, a sarcastic coworker, or a playful sibling, having a quick response can turn the tables in your favor.

In this article, we’ll explore over 60 comebacks to “Takes one to know one” that will leave them speechless. From nostalgic childhood classics to mature responses that take the high road, you’ll find the perfect reply to keep in your back pocket.

Childhood Classics – Nostalgic Comebacks to “Takes One to Know One”

Childhood Classics

1. “I’m rubber, you’re glue.”

This classic comeback bounces the insult right back to the original speaker. It’s a playful and light-hearted way to deflect the comment.

2. “I know you are, but what am I?”

A staple of playground banter, this comeback is both playful and effective. It throws the statement back at the speaker without escalating the situation.

3. “Takes one to know one, because I know you so well.”

This response adds a personal touch, implying a deep familiarity that turns the statement into a compliment rather than an insult.

4. “It takes one to spot one.”

By acknowledging the truth in the statement, this comeback subtly implies that the speaker is equally guilty of the trait they’re pointing out.

5. “Well, it takes one to raise one.”

This playful twist suggests that the speaker has been raised by someone like them, turning the statement into a compliment about their upbringing.

6. “Guess we’re both in the same club then!”

Turning the statement into a shared experience can disarm the speaker and diffuse any tension.

7. “Better to be one than to be clueless.”

This response flips the script, implying that the speaker lacks the insight or awareness to recognize their own traits.

8. “Yep, and I’m the president.”

By embracing the statement and taking a leadership role, this comeback adds a humorous twist to the conversation.

9. “Takes one to know one, because you’re so obvious.”

This witty retort suggests that the speaker’s traits are so evident that anyone could recognize them.

10. “I learned from the best!”

This comeback turns the statement into a compliment, implying that the speaker has learned their traits from someone they admire.

Witty One-Liners to Shut Down the Insult

1. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.”

This response shows confidence and turns the insult into a non-issue, demonstrating that you’re unbothered by the comment.

2. “I’d rather be one than a nobody.”

A sharp retort that implies being something is better than being insignificant.

3. “Congratulations on your self-awareness.”

This comeback adds a layer of sarcasm, suggesting that the speaker has finally recognized their own traits.

4. “Takes one to know one, and I know everyone.”

This witty reply implies that you’re well-versed in people’s traits, making the speaker’s comment redundant.

5. “Thank you for acknowledging my expertise.”

By accepting the statement as a compliment, this response turns the insult into praise for your skills or knowledge.

6. “And you’re the expert, right?”

This retort challenges the speaker’s authority on the subject, adding a layer of sarcasm to the conversation.

7. “I’m glad you noticed.”

I'm glad you noticed

A confident and straightforward reply that implies the speaker’s comment was expected and unimportant.

8. “It’s nice to be recognized.”

This response adds a positive spin, turning the statement into a form of recognition rather than an insult.

9. “Funny, I was thinking the same about you.”

A quick and effective way to mirror the comment back to the speaker without escalating the situation.

10. “Well, it takes one to be one, too.”

This response acknowledges the statement and subtly implies that the speaker shares the same traits.

Sarcastic Retorts

1. “Oh, how original!”

This sarcastic comeback implies that the speaker’s comment is unoriginal and unremarkable.

2. “You must be proud of that observation.”

A sarcastic reply that belittles the speaker’s comment, making it seem trivial and insignificant.

3. “Wow, you’re a genius.”

This retort drips with sarcasm, suggesting that the speaker’s comment is far from intelligent.

4. “Did you come up with that all by yourself?”

By questioning the originality of the comment, this response belittles the speaker’s effort.

5. “How long did it take you to think of that?”

A sarcastic retort that implies the speaker’s comment was not worth the effort they put into it.

6. “Thanks, Captain Obvious.”

This response sarcastically thanks the speaker for stating something that should be apparent to everyone.

7. “I see you’re still working on your comebacks.”

By pointing out the speaker’s lack of originality, this retort implies that they need more practice.

8. “And yet, here we are.”

A simple yet effective way to dismiss the comment as irrelevant to the current situation.

9. “Did you learn that in insult school?”

This sarcastic reply suggests that the speaker’s comment is a rehearsed and predictable insult.

10. “Aren’t you clever?”

This comeback uses sarcasm to suggest that the speaker’s comment is anything but clever.

 Turning the Tables

1. “Why, thank you for noticing!”

By accepting the comment as a compliment, you can turn the insult into something positive.

2. “I guess that makes you the expert.”

This response implies that the speaker has a lot of experience with the trait they’re pointing out.

3. “So, we’re both awesome then!”

Turning the statement into a shared compliment can disarm the speaker and change the tone of the conversation.

4. “And I learned it all from you.”

This comeback implies that the speaker is the source of the trait, turning the insult back on them.

5. “Good to know we have something in common.”

By finding common ground, this response can diffuse the tension and turn the conversation into a positive exchange.

6. “That’s because we’re both amazing.”

This reply takes the statement and elevates it into a shared compliment, boosting both parties.

7. “Glad you finally noticed.”

A confident and straightforward reply that shows you’re unbothered by the comment and perhaps even expected it.

8. “Takes one to spot one, right?”

This response subtly implies that the speaker is projecting their own traits onto you.

9. “Thanks for the confirmation.”

By treating the comment as a validation, this reply turns the insult into something positive.

10. “So, you’re admitting it then?”

This comeback challenges the speaker to own up to the trait they’re pointing out, turning the tables on them.

Pop Culture References

1. “Are you quoting Mean Girls?”

This reference to a popular movie implies that the speaker’s comment is unoriginal and borrowed from pop culture.

2. “You sound like a character from The Office.”

By comparing the speaker to a well-known TV character, this reply adds a humorous twist.

3. “Did you get that from a sitcom?”

This response suggests that the speaker’s comment is more suited to a scripted TV show than a real conversation.

4. “You must be a fan of Friends.”

Referencing a popular TV show can add a light-hearted element to the conversation and imply that the speaker’s comment is unoriginal.

5. “That sounds like something Sheldon would say.”

This comeback references The Big Bang Theory, adding a humorous touch and suggesting that the speaker’s comment is predictable.

6. “Is that a line from a movie?”

By questioning the originality of the comment, this response belittles the speaker’s effort.

7. “You sound like a Disney villain.”

This reference adds a playful twist, comparing the speaker to a well-known character.

8. “Did you learn that from Dr. House?”

Referencing a popular TV character known for their wit and sarcasm can add a humorous element to the conversation.

9. “Is that from a Marvel movie?”

This response suggests that the speaker’s comment is borrowed from popular culture, making it less impactful.

10. “You must watch a lot of TV.”

By implying that the speaker’s comment is unoriginal and borrowed from television, this comeback adds a humorous twist.

Absurd Analogies

1. “That’s like saying a fish knows water.”

 "That's like saying a fish knows water."

This analogy highlights the absurdity of the statement by comparing it to something equally nonsensical.

2. “That’s like a cat calling a dog furry.”

By using a ridiculous comparison, this comeback points out the absurdity of the statement.

3. “That’s like a bird saying it knows the sky.”

This analogy emphasizes the obviousness of the statement, making it seem trivial.

4. “That’s like the pot calling the kettle black.”

A classic analogy that highlights the hypocrisy in the statement.

5. “That’s like a tree knowing the forest.”

This response uses a whimsical comparison to highlight the obviousness of the statement.

6. “That’s like a pen knowing paper.”

By using a simple analogy, this comeback points out the triviality of the statement.

7. “That’s like a bee knowing honey.”

This analogy emphasizes the natural and obvious connection, making the statement seem trivial and self-evident.

8. “That’s like a car knowing the road.”

By using a straightforward comparison, this comeback highlights the predictability of the statement.

9. “That’s like a book knowing its pages.”

This analogy points out the inherent relationship between the two, making the statement seem redundant.

10. “That’s like a chef knowing food.”

 "That's like a chef knowing food."

By comparing the statement to something obvious, this response highlights its lack of originality and significance.

The High Road – Mature Responses to End the Conversation

1. “Let’s agree to disagree.”

This mature response diffuses the situation by acknowledging the difference in opinions without escalating the conflict.

2. “Everyone has their own perspective.”

By recognizing that everyone sees things differently, this comeback takes the high road and ends the conversation on a respectful note.

3. “I’m not interested in arguing.”

A straightforward and mature way to indicate that you’re not willing to engage in a pointless argument.

4. “Let’s move on from this.”

This response suggests shifting the conversation to a more constructive or neutral topic, avoiding further conflict.

5. “We’re better than this.”

By appealing to mutual respect and maturity, this comeback aims to elevate the conversation.

6. “Let’s focus on something positive.”

This mature response redirects the conversation towards a more uplifting and constructive topic.

7. “I respect your opinion.”

Acknowledging the speaker’s perspective without agreeing with it can defuse tension and show maturity.

8. “This isn’t worth our time.”

By pointing out the insignificance of the argument, this response suggests that both parties move on.

9. “I value our relationship too much to argue.”

This response emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive relationship over winning an argument.

10. “Peace over conflict.”

A simple yet powerful statement that prioritizes harmony and understanding over discord.

The Final Word

In the realm of witty comebacks, having a clever reply to “Takes one to know one” can turn the tables and leave your opponent speechless. From nostalgic childhood classics to mature and respectful responses, these comebacks offer a wide range of options to suit any situation. Whether you choose to take the high road or engage in playful banter, the key is to remain confident and unbothered by the initial comment.

In conclusion, witty comebacks are an art form that requires a balance of humor, confidence, and respect. The next time someone throws “Take one to know one” your way, you’ll have a variety of clever responses at your disposal to leave them speechless.

Remember, the best comeback is one that not only shuts down the insult but also maintains your dignity and composure. So, arm yourself with these comebacks and take on any verbal sparring match with confidence and poise.

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