What Makes ‘Silence’ Feel So Uncomfortable?

Silence feels uncomfortable because it means no one is talking, and that can feel strange. When people are in a conversation, they expect words, like when you’re playing a game and you need to take turns saying things. If someone stops speaking and no one else starts, it’s like the game has paused, and everyone feels confused or nervous.

Take the quiz →

Examples

  1. At a party, you say goodbye to someone, but instead of talking more, they just walk away.
  2. During a classroom discussion, your friend stops speaking and no one else starts again.
  3. On a first date, after asking about their job, there’s a long pause before the next question.

Ask a question

See also

Discussion

Recent activity

Nothing here yet.