How do I stop answering questions?
Try one of the following evasive maneuvers instead.
- Answer with another question. Pause and respond with a question of your own.
- Dodge the question.
- Shame the questioner.
- Start with “No.”
- Ignore the question.
- Put them on the defensive.
- Use a canned answer.
- Give a general answer to a specific question.
How do you tell someone you don’t want to talk about them?
Useful Expressions to Handle Uncomfortable Questions
- I’d rather not say.
- I’d prefer not to talk about that.
- I’d rather not get into [this topic] at this event.
- I’d prefer not to discuss this right now.
- I’m sorry, that’s private.
- That’s a little too personal.
- That topic is too difficult to discuss at this moment.
How do you politely ask someone to stop asking you questions?
Ask for advice. A simple way to avoid answering an unwanted question is to put the onus back on the other person. One way you can do this is to ask for advice on the subject they’re asking about.
How do I avoid answering unwanted questions in a relationship?
A simple way to avoid answering an unwanted question is to put the onus back on the other person. One way you can do this is to ask for advice on the subject they’re asking about. For example, if a married person asks you why you’re not engaged to your partner yet, you can ask them for their tips on making a relationship work long-term.
How can I avoid answering a personal question in an interview?
Use a “bridge” response to change the subject. One great way to avoid answering a personal question is to use a bridge response.
How do you deflect a question in an awkward situation?
Deflect the question back to the asker with a compliment. Compliments are a great way to deflect and defuse an awkward situation. If someone comments on your weight loss or gain in a way that makes you uncomfortable, for example, you could compliment their own appearance. Or, if someone asks you the inevitable “When are you getting married?”