Knowing how to end a conversation the “right” way can be tricky, am I right? This can be true across the board, whether you’re in an argument with someone, at a big group gathering or engaging in small talk with an old friend at the store. How do you exit a conversation politely without feeling uncomfortable or offending the other person? And can you do so in a high-class way?
If you struggle with this, don’t feel bad: Etiquette rules can be tricky, especially when you’re talking to a person in authority or a talkative coworker. It can be hard to hold boundaries and signal “I need to go” (or, let’s be honest, “I’m ready to stop talking”) without seeming abrupt or rude. You might not even know if and when you’re “allowed” to do so, or struggle to insert yourself.
According to a psychologist, ending a conversation doesn’t have to be as complicated as anxiety claims. Further, it might not even be all that awkward, believe it or not. It’s possible to leave a conversation without giving off a negative impression.
The psychologist that Parade spoke to shares a key exit phrase that usually gets the job done in a high-class (or etiquette-rich) way. Ahead, she shares what that phrase is, why it works, how to use it in different scenarios, why other common “exit attempts” fail and how to leave a lasting positive impression.
Related: This Phrase Is How ‘High-Class’ People Agree To Do Something, Psychologist Explains
The 1 Phrase ‘High-Class’ People Use To End a Conversation
When you want to end a conversation in a classy way, say, “It was so nice talking with you. I’m going to say hello to a few other people, but I hope we can catch up again soon.” This phrase is clear, simple and warm, and it acknowledges the people you’re speaking to.
“I find that people tend to remember how an interaction made them feel, so a gracious ending can leave a really positive impression,” explains Dr. Meghan Marcum, PsyD, chief psychologist at A Mission for Michael.
Related: 7 Phrases That Instantly Make You Sound Classy, According to Etiquette Experts
Why Traditional Conversation Exits Fail, According to Psychologists
If you’ve tried to exit a conversation by over-explaining why you need to leave—or been overly vague, to the point where the other person didn’t realize the conversation was ending—you’re not the only one. Plus, you’ve probably seen how it doesn’t go over well.
“Things like that can lead to lingering, repeated excuses or both people feeling uncomfortable,” Dr. Marcum says.
That’s why she recommends the phrase above, which is a “confident but kind exit.” She explains this works better “because it removes the ambiguity without making the other person feel rejected.”
Related: 7 Things People With Strong Self-Esteem Never Feel the Need To Explain, According to a Psychologist
4 Classy Ways To Exit a Conversation in Different Settings
Let’s go back to that golden phrase and what it can look like in different scenarios.
1. Networking and work events
With your exit phrase, make sure the other person knows you were listening and interested.
“Reference something positive from the conversation, and then clearly state that you are going to continue circulating,” Dr. Marcum says. “Something like, ‘I really enjoyed hearing about your work. I’m going to mingle a little more, but I’m glad we connected.’”
Related: How to Politely End a Conversation With Someone Who Won’t Stop Talking
2. One-on-one catch-ups
For a natural transition, Dr. Marcum suggests giving a heads-up. You can say something like, “I’ve loved catching up. I need to get going in a few minutes, but I’m really glad we made time for this.” That can help them feel valued.
3. Parties and large groups
In this scenario, Dr. Marcum says, “It is completely appropriate to say you are going to grab a drink, check in with the host or say hello to someone else.”
She recommends a quick, warm closing to show you enjoyed speaking with the others without creating an expectation that you’ll stay in the conversation indefinitely.
4. Awkward or one-sided conversations
Exiting this kind of conversation can feel uncomfortable (even though you may feel relieved after). If it helps, Dr. Marcum says you don’t have to wait for the perfect opening.
“A polite but direct, ‘It was nice meeting you. I’m going to make my way around, but enjoy the rest of the evening,’ creates a clear ending without being rude,” she adds.
Related: 11 Habits That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikeable’ in Group Settings, According to Etiquette Experts
The ‘Positive Anchor’ Rule: How High-Status Communicators Leave a Lasting Impression
Generally, one helpful principle is keeping the exit concise. This makes the conversation more comfortable in the moment, which the person may remember and appreciate later.
“The more someone overexplains why they need to leave, the more awkward the interaction can start to feel,” Dr. Marcum explains. “A simple, confident closing usually comes across as more natural and respectful.”
Additionally, she encourages referencing something specific from the conversation. For example, mention you loved hearing about their new role. This shows that you were genuinely listening, she explains, and ends the interaction on a thoughtful note.
Last but not least, a “warm closing anchor,” or a kind comment that leaves the door open, is welcome and helps the other person not feel dismissed.
“It can be something as simple as, ‘I’d love to hear how that turns out,’ or, ‘Hopefully, we can catch up again soon,’” Dr. Marcum states. “That kind of closing leaves the door open for further connection and helps reinforce that you valued the conversation, even though you needed to step away.”
Want to keep it simple? To end a conversation gracefully and leave a lasting positive impression, take three steps.
“Acknowledge the connection, communicate that you are leaving and end warmly,” Dr. Marcum reveals. “There is usually no need for a long explanation or apology. When people can be both direct and gracious, they actually make the interaction less awkward for everyone.”
Up Next:
Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Stop Doing This One Thing When They Meet Someone
Source:
Dr. Meghan Marcum, PsyD, is the chief psychologist at A Mission for Michael.Hence then, the article about this phrase is how high class people end a conversation psychologist explains was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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