How to politely tell someone "it's none of your business."

[jdb in AZ]

Some individuals like to over-share their ailments, including hang nails and root canals. Others are very private people and don't want everyone to know their business, such as why they've been in the hospital.

What's a good way to tell someone to stop being so nosey?

 

[ols386]

I would just politely tell them I'd rather not say.

 

[pat fan]

When someone ask me something that I don't want to answer, I tend to gloss over it and move on.

Q. You haven't been looking very good. Are you sick?
A. Oh really? I didn't sleep so well last night. OR Thanks for asking. OR Oh geez, it's just one of those days. I overslept and haven't caught up with myself since.
THEN So what do you think the meeting at 3:00 is about? I wonder if it's about the new vacation policy. See you there! Then walk away.

 

[minnie mum]

I tell them that part of my life not something I discuss, and change the subject.

 

[Vijoge]

Q. You haven't been looking very good. Are you sick?
.

A. I was diagnosed yesterday with (insert terminal illness here) and I only have about three weeks to live. Will you help my husband pay for my funeral?

 

[Bella the Ball 360]

I tell them that part of my life not something I discuss, and change the subject.

YEP! I love it when people over step their bounds be it questions that are none of their business OR asking if I mind if they use or take such and such. I just pretty much tell them I won't discuss it or YES I do mind if you use such and such. I love the look of surprise on their faces and my reply is well if you are bold enough to ask then I am bold enough to answer. OMG it is priceless!

 

[Bella the Ball 360]

A. I was diagnosed yesterday with (insert terminal illness here) and I only have about three weeks to live. Will you help my husband pay for my funeral?

OMG I LOVE IT!!!! I am just afraid if I say something like that it will come true....yes it is stupid of me but I do not like to tempt fate.

 

[CPanther95]

"I'm really not comfortable discussing that, just like I wouldn't be comfortable discussing what your spouse is doing behind your back."

 

[Vijoge]

OMG I LOVE IT!!!! I am just afraid if I say something like that it will come true....yes it is stupid of me but I do not like to tempt fate.

I know it's harsh, but people are so freaking nosy. I had a co-worker hound me for years wanting to know how much we paid for our house. If you're that interested the information is available on line, for pete's sake. And another one, who, every time she hears me having a conversation with someone, will ask "What are you talking about?" What part of "None of your business" don't you understand?

 

[Vijoge]

"I'm really not comfortable discussing that, just like I wouldn't be comfortable discussing what your spouse is doing behind your back."

Good one!

 

[King Schultz]

Just say, "Yeah, found out I have the Ebola virus." Then give 'em a big hug and thank them for asking.

 

[Micca]

Specifically, if I've been in the hospital and don't want to discuss it...the dialogue would be as follows:

Q: Micca what were you in the hospital for?
A: 5 days and $77,000 (laughter ensues). It's a long boring story, I'll spare you. I'm feeling better as long as I keep drinking beer. (more laughter ensues.) So ya up to date with Game Of Thrones?

 

[NFLDERS]

Some individuals like to over-share their ailments, including hang nails and root canals. Others are very private people and don't want everyone to know their business, such as why they've been in the hospital.

What's a good way to tell someone to stop being so nosey?

Since you have stated you wish to tell them to stop "being so nosey" I'm not as gracious as the other posters. My reply would be I'm sorry, but with all due respect that is NOYB.

 

[roseaster]

"I'd rather not talk about it."

 

[jevs]

The internet has a lot to answer for. Always blows my mind the things that people share in the public arena.

I think I would start by changing the subject and if they persist tell them to MYOB in a more blunt manner.

 

[gwynne]

I'd rather not discuss that, but I have been meaning to tell you about (new restaurant, new shop, something about the kids, etc.)

 

[loves to dive]

I would probably just say it was something routine not big deal. But, I'm known for not talking about personal things at work so no one would ask me to start with. I would tell my boss I had to be out for x amount of time because I had to have a procedure done that would be that. My boss is very careful about not asking because of HIPPA laws so that would be all that is needed.

 

[bigbabyblues]

I guess I'm just not nice. After the first time, I'd just say it is none of your business.

 

[MickeySP]

Side eye & indignant - I beg you @#$%$ pardon. Slow walk away

 

[dazedx3]

"Oh wow, I'm surprised you would ask that, I never ask such personal questions!" This should be said with a big smile.