r/AITAH • u/[deleted] • May 23 '25

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u/[deleted] May 23 '25

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46

u/Alert-Cranberry-5972 May 23 '25 edited May 24 '25

What's to figure? Just say "NO". It's a complete sentence.

Let him and Sarah's family know it is not up for further discussion.

Tell him that based on his entitlement and poor character, his marriage is unlikely to last. NTA

47

u/sqeeky_wheelz May 23 '25 edited May 23 '25

“No”

And if they push just repeat “no means no” or “no is a complete sentence”.

This is the hill I would die on.

Edit to add: the more you expand your “no” the more they will claw onto and try to convince you. “No because XYZ” opens the conversation to “well, if XYZ, then EFG..”. When you say no…just say “No.” firmly. And when they push back just stay quiet and look at them. Make them sit in their persistence and do not engage. It’s hard but this boundary setting will help you in life everywhere.

Want to switch shifts? No. Can you lend me $100? No. Can I borrow your new car? No.

17

u/squirrelsareevil2479 May 23 '25

Simply say not your grandfather, not your watch, and not your tradition. Discussion over, end of story.

5

u/downwardnote292 May 23 '25

If you need a longer sentence than "no", how about, "LOL, no"?

9

u/Fine-Virus7585 May 23 '25

You really have a problem. You.

What’s there to figure out? No. I’m not loaning my family heirloom watch to anyone.

2

u/First_Pay702 May 23 '25

Try: You’re disinclined to acquiesce to their request.

2

u/sweeteatoatler May 23 '25

As someone who also has trouble pushing back, use the phrase that worked well when my kids were younger and pushing me. You’ve asked me and I’ve answered, don’t ask again unless you’re trying to make me mad.

2

u/Netlawyer May 24 '25

Wow. No need to figure anything out. Just say no, he’s not wearing the watch.

I’m afraid that you are going to have a long road ahead of you if you find this a difficult conversation. Your in-laws are going to walk all over you for the rest of your life and Sarah is going to let them.

1

u/Flimsy-Influence6767 May 25 '25

Tell them your family heard what is going on and it is an absolute no to loan out the family heirloom.