A story on PR Daily explores a recent study by The10Company in which business bloggers identify the communication failings of CEOs.

In the study, bloggers named the top five phrases that make them feel as if a CEO is trying to manipulate them. Here they are (with explanations from the study):

1. This deal is a win/win.

Whether it’s true or not, bloggers believe that few business deals, if any, are really win-win—particularly in the current economic climate. “What’s really win-win these days?” A survey respondent asked.

2. Thinking/working/planning outside the box.

The phrase is viewed as classic corporate-speak. “I hear someone say they are thinking ‘outside the box,’ and I take that as a really good sign that they aren’t,” said one of the respondents.

3. We're not here to talk about the past.

When CEOs use this phrase it’s seen as a clichéd, not-so-clever diversionary tactic designed to avoid an unpleasant topic.

4. We are an innovative company.

Bloggers are adamant that innovation has become an empty promise—something that many companies say they stand for, but few (if any) can actually deliver.

5. Executive X is stepping down to spend more time with his family.

Bloggers believe this phrase has become code for an executive who is being forced out of a job; most likely because of a scandal, an ethics violation, an internal power struggle, or an impending downturn in the company’s fortunes.

Read the full story about the study here.