Preply surveyed over 1,000 Brits to uncover the scenarios that spark the most dread of awkward moments.
You can read the full research here: https://preply.com/en/blog/awkward-silences-in-the-uk/
The table below shows the total 10 worst scenarios for awkward silence:
| Rank | Situation | Gen Z | Total |
| 1 | On first dates | 47% | 37% |
| 2 | Public speaking | 43% | 35% |
| 3 | Casual conversations with strangers | 29% | 30% |
| 4 | In confined spaces – lifts | 25% | 23% |
| 5 | Conflict situations | 22% | 24% |
| 6 | At funerals | 20% | 25% |
| 7 | In group discussions | 19% | 19% |
| 8 | During family gatherings | 18% | 18% |
| When discussing important issues with your partner | 18% | 17% | |
| 9 | While breaking up with someone | 17% | 18% |
| 10 | In business meetings in the office | 9% | 16% |
Only 16% of Brits report feeling indifferent to awkward silences, while 92% of Gen Z (13-28) feel discomfort, compared to 75% of Boomers (57-75). In our fast-paced society, the expectation for continuous communication has made face-to-face pauses uncomfortable, heightening anxiety levels among younger individuals.
Nearly 47% of Gen Z individuals confess that they dread awkward silences the most on first dates, underscoring a common challenge they face. The pressure to leave a good impression or to connect can make these moments especially intimidating and stressful.
Nearly 60% of Brits and almost six in ten (59%) Gen Z’ers find awkward pauses with strangers uncomfortable. These silences may signal judgment or disconnection, hindering the identification of common topics due to a lack of shared experiences.
You can view the research and methodology in full here: https://preply.com/en/blog/awkward-silences-in-the-uk/
