If you are out in public minding your own business and trying to get on with your life, it can be a little surprising to have a rude stranger verbally assault you.
One day I was at the supermarket peacefully waiting in line minding my own business. I had gone into the store to get change to make a donation, and I needed to break a twenty dollar bill. I realized if I purchased one of the items I had then I wouldn’t have enough change left over, so I put something in an empty cart that an employee could return later. I was running late and didn’t have time to do it myself.
The guy behind me in line started going ballistic. He said, “You are just too lazy to return that item.” I said nicely, “Why don’t you live your life and I will live mine?” The guy then started verbally abusing me in front of a long line of people. After initially being polite, I had enough. I said to the guy, “If I wanted to listen to an asshole, I’d fart.” You should have seen the look on the guy’s face. He was shocked that someone responded and verbally slayed him. He quickly shut up and didn’t say another word.
You want to tell a verbal stranger where to go, but you don’t want to instigate a huge argument that won’t end well. You never know how someone will react. Here are a few comebacks to let the person know that they are a jerk without turning them into a crazed, revengeful lunatic.
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What to say to a rude stranger
1. Did you mean to be so rude?
2. I hope your day is as pleasant as you are.
3. You would be much more likeable if it wasn’t for that hole in your mouth that noise comes out of.
4. I wish I could put some people on mute.
5. Is your drama going to have an intermission soon?
6. You would argue with a fence post.
7. Have a nice day, somewhere else.
8. Really, you know what that sounds like? Not my problem!
9. Try being informed instead of being opinionated.
10. I’m sorry, but I don’t think we can continue this conversation if you’re going to be rude.
When you are attacked verbally by a rude stranger
If you find yourself in a situation where you are being verbally attacked by a rude stranger, it can be difficult to know how to respond. You want to keep your safety in mind in case you are dealing with an unhinged person.
Here are some tips that may help:
Always stay calm: try to stay calm and composed, even if they make your blood boil.
Don’t escalate the situation: Avoid arguments or engaging if the person is trying to trigger you.
Walk away: if you are in an unsafe situation, remove yourself immediately.
Remember that you have the power to control your reactions and choose how you respond to the situation. Don’t let someone else’s bad behaviour control your emotions or ruin your day.
Famous people called out for for being rude to strangers and fans
Famous people called out for for being rude to strangers and fans
There have been incidents where celebrities have been called out for being rude to their fans. Some of these instances include:
1. Justin Bieber – The music sensation has been slammed by the media for being rude and ignoring his his fans. At a meet and greet in 2016 he actually walked out of the room.
2. Ariana Grande – The singer has been called rude by the mid for refusing to take pictures with some of her fans.
3. Kanye West – The rapper has been accused of being not only rude to his fans but the paparazzi as well. He has even took away a camera from a member of the paparazzi in 2013.
4. Jennifer Lawrence – The actress has been accused of telling a fan to, “get out of my face.”
5. Madonna – The signer has a reputation for being rude to fans and the media. Madge even told a reporter to shut up.
Celebrities do deserve their personal space, but it they need to remember it is the fans who gave them their career.
More top ten comeback lists you might like
- 17 Smart replies to rude comments
- Top ten comebacks for rude strangers
- What to say if someone calls you rude
- What to say to someone who mutters rude things under their breath
- More comebacks you might like
The Role of counselling and self care
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When you are dealing with a stranger who is rude and you find it stressful, consider getting support from a professional. Talking to a counselor is a great way to work through a challenging situation, and help you find some strategies to work through the person’s behaviour.
Better Help is a great resource where you can talk to a counselor from the comfort of your own home.
Taking care of your own needs isn’t selfish, and you will feel better in the long run.