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It could be the scourge of any polite social interaction.
But scientists have found that Britons are among the best in the world at enduring awkward silence.
A study has calculated the precise point at which people in different countries start to feel uncomfortable if the conversation peters out, and found that the average Briton starts to shake only after a considerable 7.1 seconds of silence.
In comparison, talkative Brazilians break down after just 5.5 seconds and Italians and Colombians after 6.2 seconds. The Americans last only a little longer and start to feel uncomfortable after 6.3 seconds.
The international average, according to the survey of more than 26,000 people by online language tutor Preply, is 6.8 seconds, meaning Brits are willing to put up with a bit of social embarrassment for longer than most. .
And while interactions with strangers are more likely to lead to awkward silences, a third say they endure them with their bosses and one in five with their in-laws.
Preply spokesperson Yolanda Del Peso said: “Cultural differences shape how people respond to prolonged periods of silence.
‘In many Asian cultures silence is considered polite, as a sign of courteous and thoughtful attention and consideration.
Brits are among the best in the world at enduring awkward silence in a conversation, which lasts an average of 7.1 seconds (file photo)
Chatty Brazilians break down after just 5.5 seconds and Italians and Colombians after 6.2 seconds, while research shows we are more likely to have awkward silences with strangers.
“But Western cultures often perceive silence as uncomfortable, prompting people to actively fill in the gaps… the average tipping point is around 6.8 seconds.”
William Hanson, author of the etiquette guide Simply Good Manners, insists that awkward pauses “are not a catastrophe but an opportunity.”
He said: ‘Accept silence with grace, without becoming agitated or panicking, as a calm demeanor reflects confidence.
“Pauses are a natural rhythm of human interaction and your composure will invite others to participate without pressure.”
