Question

I tried to get past someone without excusing myself. She said, "You're very strange. Did you not see that I was here?" Was she rude?

Answer 1

From the information provided, it seems like the person's response might come across as somewhat rude or at least confrontational. However, it's essential to consider the context and tone of the interaction to fully understand the intent behind their words.

Here are a few possible interpretations of the situation:

1. Misunderstanding: Perhaps the person felt genuinely surprised or startled by your actions because they thought you didn't notice them. It could be that they expected you to acknowledge their presence before passing by, and their comment was more of a surprised remark rather than intentionally rude.

2. Personal Perception: Sometimes, people might perceive actions differently based on their own emotions or past experiences. If the person was having a bad day or was feeling sensitive, they might have interpreted your behavior as intentionally ignoring them, leading to their response.

3. Cultural Differences: Social norms and expectations can vary across different cultures. In some cultures, it's common to excuse yourself or acknowledge someone's presence explicitly, while in others, it might not be seen as necessary. If there are cultural differences at play, it could explain the person's reaction.

4. Communication Styles: Different individuals have different communication styles. Some people might prefer more direct communication and expect others to do the same. If you didn't excuse yourself, they might have seen it as a breach of social norms and reacted accordingly.

While the person's response might have been somewhat abrupt, it's essential to remain calm and considerate in such situations. If you believe that you might have unintentionally offended or upset them, a polite apology and a brief explanation of your actions can help clear the air. However, if you believe their response was unwarranted or excessively rude, it might be best to move on without escalating the situation.

Remember, interpersonal interactions can be complex, and misunderstandings happen. The key is to communicate respectfully and be open to understanding each other's perspectives.