Motormouth Interrupt

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Steering the conversation > Motormouth Interrupt

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Interrupt by talking quickly.

Find a small pause, for example when they are taking a breath, and then jump in and do not stop.

Do not give them time to interrupt back. Just keep on talking without pause.

Also be careful not to send any signals that will allow them to pick up on a way back in. Sometimes it is even a good idea not to look directly at them.

Example

Omygoddidyouseethat!Idon'tknowifyouaregoingtogoouttonightbutIreallywanto...

Discussion

The 'motormouth' interrupt is one of the ruder ways of interrupting, and is common in situations where the participants are particularly excited or aroused in some way. Where the interrupter is enthused, then they may be excused their rudeness in their enthusiasm for the conversation.

Motormouth interruption is thus more socially acceptable in groups where everyone is excited and talking quickly and counter-motormouth interruptions are acceptable.

The other person may seek a way back in, for example using a Body Language Interrupt. If the interrupter is not looking at them, then this will not work.