Split Conversations?

[Poppy98]

Sometimes when there's a group in the same room there is one discussion even when people on your side aren't joining in and probably aren't listening, you're not supposed to start a second (even of you can't follow it). Sometimes it's the opposite. Anyone know when a second/alternate conversation is considered okay? (Obviously not when a group leader like the teacher or a supervisor is talking to everyone, but besides that?)

 

[TBRS1]

Let's imagine a family situation, or a friend group.

As long as people are together in a specific place, the rule appears (to me) to be that there is only one conversation at a time, generally run or dominated by one person who (if they are polite) periodically hands it over to other people when they have input. People who aren't taking part don't interrupt.

To start a second conversation is rude, UNLESS the second conversation is personal (i.e.: between two or three people), and they can be seen as being somewhat isolated from the main group (things like sitting close together, leaning in, speaking quietly constitute "somewhat isolated," as does chatting in the hallway or kitchen).