I've encountered many people who get mad when I respond with "I don't want to talk about that right now " or "i dont really want to want to share that story with you" or "Its not the right time to talk about that." Is there any alternate response I can give to nosy people asking about my personal life??
2006-12-02 10:09:22 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
The audacity of some people! My stock response, in a very polite tone, is: "That's a very personal question. Why do you ask?" Generally it conveys the message that I consider what they're asking personal property and also makes them explain their vulgar curiosity.
2006-12-02 12:56:02 · answer #1 · answered by RPCV Pacific 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometimes I just tell them that I really don't know or I can't say for sure. Then other times I just tell them a slight response and then ask them a question to politely change the subject. It really just depends how private the information or personal it is, and who is asking me. I really believe that the way you respond is just fine and very appropriate. It is honest and bold to say that you don't want to share that information or talk about it right now. It takes someone with self-respect to say that. So don't worry about what they think. If they smart off to you, then say something like--well you asked and I am being honest, so there should not be a problem. They will get the hint. People can be so rude at times and need a lesson in manners. It sounds like you give them one, so good for you.
2006-12-02 19:44:31 · answer #2 · answered by just julie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I always say, That's personal, no offense. Whether they take offense or not is not my concern. I'm not going to share something that's really personal just so they don't get mad at me.Near as I'm concerned their just being nosy and want some dirt to tell other people. Hey, if it's really personal,tell them and move on. Change the subject. Just try to do it a proper manner. Like don't snap at them if they hit your funny bone. If they persist, walk away. They don't need to know every personal aspects of your life and they shouldn't expect to. Your not at fault and you've done nothing wrong so lose the guilt.
2006-12-02 18:35:04 · answer #3 · answered by zzap2001 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would respond with, "That's a loong story." and change the subject. I might also say, "That's a story for another time". I wouldn't go out of my way to be rude or snappy. The person asking may not have realized what a private person you are and there is no need to purposely make them feel embarrassed.
2006-12-02 19:48:12 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sarcasm. I get asked a lot of touchy questions. I usually just respond with a sarcastic comment with a question mixed in. Most people take forever to realize you're not ansering their questions. Sarcasm is the refuge for all.
2006-12-02 19:01:20 · answer #5 · answered by Simon 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think what you already say is fine. You shouldn't feel obligated to make them feel not angry for asking you such a nosy question. Seriously, you're the one who should be a little ticked off. I know I would be.
2006-12-02 22:02:41 · answer #6 · answered by n33dt0b3free 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe you shouldn't be so closed minded. If there asking you wants wrong or what's up maybe there is something they see that you don't. Try to talk about your feeling's instead of holding them all in. It will make you feel a lot better.
2006-12-02 18:20:03 · answer #7 · answered by MILF101 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am not the right person to offer my opinion on the subject.
I don't know enough to offer the opinion.
It is not the right subject for a discussion.
It is not worth discussing the matter.
2006-12-02 18:18:25 · answer #8 · answered by paloma 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just reply with this question: "& You would want to know WHY?"
Put it back on them...
You don't have to tell anyone- anything that you don't want to...
2006-12-02 18:18:54 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Put the onus back on them by asking "Why do you need to know"?
2006-12-02 18:17:10 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋