Politeness in Interruptions: When to Say ‘I Have to Go’

Have you ever been in a situation where someone constantly interrupts you while you're talking? This can be quite frustrating, especially if you feel it's impolite or unprofessional. But is it always rude to interrupt someone? The answer depends on the context and the situation at hand.

Understanding the Context

Whether it's impolite to interrupt someone can vary significantly based on the context. If you are the one trying to contribute to a conversation and the person speaking is not yet finished, it is generally considered rude. However, if it is your turn to speak, interrupting might be acceptable or even necessary to maintain the flow of the discussion.

Situations Involving Communication Disorders

Some individuals might interrupt due to communication difficulties such as learning disabilities, anxiety, or ADHD. These conditions can make it challenging for them to communicate effectively. If you encounter someone with such challenges, it might be best to give them a clear signal that you understand their urgency. For instance, they could raise their hand like they do in school to signal that they have something important to say.

Polite but Firm Solutions

There are several polite yet firm ways to handle interruptions. If you find that someone is frequently interrupting you, it might be helpful to politely explain that you need a moment to finish your thought. You can say something like, "Hey listen, I really have to go now, but I'll catch up with you as soon as I'm done with my work." This gives the other person a clear indication that you need to continue.

Another effective method is to simply hang up the phone if you are speaking on the phone and the conversation is getting too lengthy. If you receive a call and you need to end the call quickly, you can hang up and blame it on the connection or battery. While it may not be the most polite option, it can be a necessary step to regain control of your time.

Additionally, if the person keeps talking after you have explained that you need to go, you can say, "Sorry Mary, but I do have to go soon. Bye!" and hang up immediately. This approach ensures that your message is heard without causing unnecessary disruption or guilt on your part.

Handling Persistent Interruptions

Remember, even if you have already said that you need to go, some people might still not take the hint. If this is the case, it's important to be firm but polite. You can use a clear and assertive statement like, "I'm terminating this conversation" to make it known that you are done. This will help to close the conversation in a respectful manner, even if it's difficult.

In conclusion, while it's generally impolite to constantly interrupt someone, it's important to consider the context and the individual's circumstances. If you find yourself in a situation where interruptions are frequent and disruptive, there are several polite yet assertive ways to handle the situation effectively.