If someone is standing too close in a line...?

Question

What would be a good thing to say to politely ask them not to stand so close?

Answer 1

ask them politely, tell them your invading your space, if they're level headed they'll get it, you have the right to say that, and it's not unkind, childish people would like you to think it is.

Answer 2

I usually just step away from them first when the line is not moving, and if they crowd me even more, then I turn around and ask them to step back because they're making me uncomfortable by standing so close. If that doesn't work, then being rude is probably your best option if they're really bothering you. I have personal space issues, so I have resorted to rudeness on several occasions. Oh, and stepping on their feet also works some of the time.

Answer 3

I think a good thing to do would be to turn suddenly, maybe even bump them with your elbows, and then say with a startled expression on your face, "Oh, excuse me, I didn't see you there, you were standing so close!"...Either that, or start hacking and coughing...that will clear them away fast! If you can't turn around with your hands in your pockets and NOT bump them with your elbows, they're too close! In my mind, unless you're on a packed bus, or jammed in a subway car, it is extremely rude to be standing that close anyway...it's an invasion of personal space.

Answer 4

This happened to me last night! I was standing in line and for no reason the lady behind me decided she wanted to get inbetween me and the front of her cart. I guess she wanted something and couldn't wait a whole minute to get it when she moved up. She banged into me and apologized as if she had no clue I was there. I threw her a dirty look over my shoulder!

Another time I was standing in line a girl in front of me deicded she was going to move back -- the back of her head literally right in front of my face. So I "accidentally" brushed up against her as a way of saying helloooooo move away from me! lol

Answer 5

Reach in your pocket, purse or knapsack and "accidentally" hit them with your elbow. Then say loudly enough for others to hear, " I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were so close to me". They will likely be embarrassed with other people around to hear that and keep a respect-full distance from you from then on. Honesty isn't always the best policy when it comes to dealing with other peoples lack of good manners.

Answer 6

I don't say anything. I just shuffle backwards so they either have to move back too or I step on their feet. They don't stand so close after you stand on their feet. Serves them right but is a little embarrassing.

Answer 7

Don't say a thing, just turn round and look briefly. They should get the message. Personal space varies from culture to culture and they may not be aware of their intrusion.

Answer 8

begin the distinctive inhale of a sneeze as you turn in their direction. or cough and sniffle repeatedly and mumble about how you hope the doctor is wrong about this being contagious. or turn and face them, people tend to crowd you when you are not looking, but when face to face people will usually back up a step.

Answer 9

Move Forward in the line. I know nothingg about personal space lol I lvoe being packed in at a crowded mosh.

Answer 10

I don't think there is any polite way to say that. You could try moving and accidentally bumping into them and maybe when they move back they'll stay there.

Answer 11

Don't say anything, just lean back or forward until your body weight is resting on them, like you are using them for a pillar. They will get the hint.