In Ireland, this one is the ultimate conversation stopper and is usually preceded by:
Ah sher…
A likely scenario would be: two or more people meeting in a casual setting, such as in the street, or a shop. After the usual pleasantries have been exchanged, someone will inevitably mention the recession or the weather or some other really depressing subject. The audience appear to be listening intently and agreeing with everything that’s being said, but they are more likely to be trying to a work out how to get away and as soon as the speaker pauses for breath, someone will save the day by saying:
Ah sher, you know yourself..
And that’s it. End of conversation. It’s a handy little one and allows everyone to continue on their way.
