Interrupting is defined as

• A. Waiting to speak after a pause
• B. One partner will not let the other finish their thought
• C. A pause to listen
• D. Deliberate silence

Answer: (B)

Interrupting is about one partner not letting the other finish their thought, cutting them off mid-sentence. This behavior signals that the interrupter is prioritizing their own input over the speaker’s, which can erode trust, shut down open dialogue, and make the other person feel unheard. In healthy communication, partners take turns and allow each person to complete their point before replying, signaling respect and attentiveness.

Waiting to speak after a pause demonstrates turn-taking and listening. A pause to listen shows active listening and giving space for the other to express themselves. Deliberate silence can be a strategic choice to reflect or de-escalate, but it doesn’t involve cutting someone off mid-speech.