Sorry, tessa, but I find Fine to be more useful than evil.

I'm Fine is handy shorthand. Do we really care about everyone out there when we ask the question "how are you?" No, we don't and we don't have the time to listen to a litany of excuses about why things aren't going well. Much of the day, I just want folks to say fine and let me get on with something/someone more important.

That's fine is my way of giving in without giving up anything. My tone is usually enough to convey that they'll be sorry for choosing that color blouse, changing the project guidelines, or forgetting that important anniversary.

My favorite, though, is Fine, whatever you want. When I hear that, I know I've won. I've been able to browbeat my lover, coworker, random stranger into doing things my way. They're not happy about it now but, when they've had time to reflect, they'll realize that doing it my way was the right way all along.

ER