Why do some people cough when they want attention?

Question

Why not say excuse me or communicate verbally instead of grunting and/or coughing?

Answer 1

Lack of something intelligent to say to get someones attention.

Answer 2

A slight coughing sound politely alerts people to your presence without you having to interrupt a conversation or physically present yourself. It is used when simply standing quietly has not alerted other people to your presence. Most days people don't know how to be polite so even polite conventions are corrupted into something rude.

Answer 3

2 reasons at polar opposites...

Some people do it bcz they are nervous and haven't got the confidence to ask for attention outright.


Other people are so arrogant that they think it's a signal for everybody else to shut up and listen to them.

I can tell the difference between the 2....and ignore the second.

Answer 4

Because sometimes they have tried all that and it doesn't work. Especially when some snotty salesperson is actively ignoring you. You cough the grossest loudest loogie you can and hope they at least turn and scowl at you then they absolutely cannot pretend they can't see you and have to service your gross behind.

Answer 5

sometimes it's easier to non-verbally communicate your wants and needs (such as the need for attention), than to come right out and say what needs to be said.

Answer 6

i have not clue---maybe ignorance

i guess because a cough makes people turn and stare cause they don't want to catch the germs

Answer 7

Cough? I usually just fart loudly when I want attention. It works much better than coughing!

Answer 8

It is more polite than certain things one might say; and a time honored convention.

Not a big deal.

Answer 9

to some it is an automatic nervous response.

Answer 10

Why ask why?