How to Dodge an Awkward Question: 5 Strategies to Save Yourself from Tactless Interlocutors

We’ve all been in situations where someone, forgetting basic decency, asks a question that makes you want to disappear or teleport to a parallel universe.

We’ve all been in situations where someone, forgetting basic decency, asks a question that makes you want to disappear or teleport to a parallel universe. Instead of getting flustered or annoyed, you can learn to skillfully navigate tricky conversational moments. Here are 5 proven strategies to gracefully dodge awkward questions and even come out as a winner in any dialogue.

Answer a question with a question

This classic trick works wonders. When faced with an uncomfortable question, respond with a friendly clarification like: “Why are you asking? What difference will my answer make?”

This has a double effect: you shift the spotlight to your interlocutor, making them feel less confident. The key is to maintain a calm tone. This not only disarms the person but also makes them question whether their inquiry was appropriate.

— Why are you still single?
— Why are you so curious? Do you know something about my perfect partner?

Shift the topic

If you feel the conversation is heading into unwanted territory, redirect the flow. Clarify what the person means and then respond within the boundaries of a topic you’re comfortable with.

— When will you find a real job?
— What exactly do you mean? My career or how I plan my future?

Talk around it like a politician

If you find it hard to deflect the question right away, delay your answer. Start telling a long, convoluted story that seems related to the question but actually steers the person far from the subject.

This method is especially handy for those who are adept at elegantly avoiding direct answers.

— How much do you earn?
— Well, you know, salaries these days depend on many factors: the industry, the region, the level of competition… For instance, I recently read that IT specialists…

Ask for advice

A great way to shift focus is to ask a counter-question that gives the other person a chance to talk about themselves. People love giving advice!

— Why haven’t you gotten married yet?
— By the way, you’ve been married for a while. How did you know she was the one? Share your experience, I’d love to hear it!

Mirror the awkwardness

If the person persists, it’s time to apply a firmer approach. Take their question and rephrase it in a way that makes them feel as uncomfortable as you did.

— Why haven’t you bought a house yet?
— Why do you ask? Are you planning to help me with the mortgage?