Excellent question. Let’s try a different one.
Chinese original
这个问题很好，我们换个问题。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
Comebacks for Rude Questions and Awkward Jokes
A personal question from someone you barely know, a joke at your expense, or a conversation that needs to end. These English translations of Chinese replies range from changing the subject to calling out the intrusion.
10 comebacks3 intensity levelsNo login · Ready to copy
That’s a direct question. Here’s a direct answer: I’d rather not say.
Chinese original
你问得挺直接，我答得也可以直接：不方便。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
I’d rather not discuss that. Let’s talk about something else.
Chinese original
我不太想聊这个，我们聊点别的。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
Thanks for caring. I have my own plans for that.
Chinese original
谢谢你关心，这事我自己有安排。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
That joke doesn’t work for me. Let’s change the subject.
Chinese original
这个玩笑我不太接得住，我们换个话题。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
I know you mean well, but I’m not looking for advice.
Chinese original
我理解你是好意，不过我不需要建议。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
Can we leave this topic here?
Chinese original
这个话题到此为止，好吗？
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
I’m not going to judge them or comment on this.
Chinese original
我不评价别人，也不评价这件事。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
Go on. I’m listening, but I may not respond.
Chinese original
你继续说，我听着，但我不一定回应。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
I don’t think we know each other well enough for that question.
Chinese original
我们好像不太熟到可以聊这个。
Original source unverified; not attributed to a historical author.
Social situations: a little context
What is a sharp reply to a personal question?
“I don’t think we know each other well enough for that question.” points out the intrusion without giving away the answer. If you want a lighter exit, “Excellent question. Let’s try a different one.” changes the subject with a joke.
Can I change the subject without explaining why?
Yes. A brief statement that you would rather discuss something else can be enough. You do not have to share personal details to justify it.
What should I say to an unwelcome joke?
You can say that the joke does not work for you and ask to move on. Choose the strength of the reply for the relationship and the situation.