Dealing with the Passive-Aggressive

Passive aggressiveness is simply annoying.
More so if you can't realize what's annoying about it.

Well, it's a symptom of fear and weakness. Those who rely on it want control without accountability, influence without risk, and punishment without exposure. But you don’t have to play their game. Noooot at all.

The key is clarity and boundaries. Surgical, calm, decisive.
Don't decode their hidden meanings or bend yourself to guess what they "really mean". "Perhaps it's not what I think".

NO!

Ask direct questions, insist on specifics. Refuse to accept vague jabs as guidance. Call out the attack out of its mask.

Protect your energy instead of getting drawn into their emotional maze.

Don't let politeness trap you. Name the behavior calmly.

"Your point is unclear. Please clarify what you mean".
"That tone doesn't work for me. Please never use it again when speaking to me".

Stay factual, neutral, and firm.

Weakness thrives on confusion and guilt; directness disarms it.

However, sadly, ultimately, you can't change them. You may just refuse to be their playground. Set your boundaries, demand clarity, and let cowardice remain theirs alone.