He Says: "Grab me a Vitaminwater from the fridge while you're up."
What it Means: Sure, his nonchalant tone (and failure to say, what's the word -- please) can be jarring, but it doesn't mean your boyfriend thinks you're his slave. Men, unlike women, tend to be much more comfortable using command terms rather than asking for things. Translation: He's less likely to say, 'Would you mind...' before a request.
He Says: "No prob. Anytime."
What it Means: What ever happened to just a regular "You're welcome?" In short, testosterone. In short, a 2008 study by the University of Western Ontario found that men are more likely to use phrases like "anytime," even after doing a favor that cost a lot of money or time -- as if to suggest that they could perform the same favor again if needed. You might have noticed that your boyfriend uses this type of language even more with other guys than with you -- and you're exactly right. It's actually a modern form of alpha male behavior.
He Says: "Crap, it's your birthday? I totally forgot...psych!"
What it Means: You might have dreamed of waking up on your birthday to roses and breakfast in bed, which is why his practical joke isn't funny -- to you. But to him, it's so freaking hilarious he needs to take his show on the road. Try not to take his goofy jokes to heart -- he's not trying to hurt your feelings (he just wants to make you laugh).
He Says: (Nothing.)
What it Means: Nothing's more frustrating than having your guy shut down mid-fight. You want to talk it out until things are cool; he wants to do anything except talk. But don't take his stonewalling routine as him not caring. Lois Braverman, MSW, president of the Ackerman Institute, says women have learned to "read" men, scanning every word and move for meaning. Here's a news flash: His silence isn't code for "I'm trying to be difficult" -- he's just looking to snag some alone time to think things through. Let him have it.
Want to find out what she's really saying? Find out now.
-- Caitlin Moscatello
See More: How to , Love & Sex , Couple Issues