Being rude in conversation can not only be unpleasant, but also destructive to personal and professional relationships.
Stopping a rude conversation is a communication art that requires tact, confidence and strategy.
Let's look at different approaches and techniques that can help you take control of the situation and steer the dialogue in a more constructive direction.
"You are right"
Sometimes it is easy to tell when another person is being rude. They are often trying to provoke an argument, and in such a situation they will say anything to upset the person.
Some people spew information in a rude manner, expecting others to try to prove them wrong, but the best way to disarm such a rude person is to tell them they are right.
“Your opinion is valuable”
Sometimes people don't mean to be rude, many just speak that way to get their point across. To get rid of that nasty tone, you can calmly acknowledge the other person's opinion.
You don't have to agree with what the other person says, but letting them know you value their point of view can help ease the hostility a little. Don't tolerate rudeness.
“Sorry you had a bad day.”
Rude people, for the most part, are not angry without a reason. You can often calm a rude person down by trying to understand why he or she is behaving that way. There is always a cause and effect.
There is no excuse for a person to decide to get angry when something happens to him, but it is a common reaction that spreads to others because he is already upset.
To end a rude conversation, you can say that you are sorry the person is upset.
"Thank you"
This phrase lets the rude person know that his words have not worked. Remember, when someone is rude, they expect a rude response.
To deal with a rude person and change the atmosphere, simply acknowledge his harsh remarks. This response essentially means that his words are appreciated, but will not be joined in.
“Let's end this conversation.”
Rudeness can make someone angry, and when that happens, the phrase a person needs most is “let’s end the conversation.” Anger will prevent you from saying anything constructive to calm the other person down.
Therefore, stopping the conversation may be the only way to prevent further negative words and possible actions.
“It might hurt my feelings.”
It's okay to be a little sarcastic if it helps calm someone down. Phrases like "that could make me cry" or "you almost hurt my feelings" can show the other person that you're ready to brush it all off.
It also shows that the words don't really hurt at all. And if the rude person's comments don't make an impact, he'll probably just shut up.
“Why are you negative?”
To make a rude person think about what he says, ask him this question. It will make him think for a moment before he makes another harsh comment.
Sometimes a rude person will even tone down their verbal attacks when they realize how negative they are. It doesn't always work, but it's worth a try.
"You're very good at being rude."
This is another sarcastic remark that may embarrass a rude person.
This will distract him and make him think about what he is doing. It is funny and may disarm him to the point that he will laugh.
Earlier we reported on how to live with a silent husband .
Expert: Elena Gutyro
