Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Testversation

A testversation is when you slip some small detail or inside joke into a conversation (most likely with new acquaintances) to test their knowledge or, more likely, mindset, sense of humor, etc... My favorite example of this was when I was at a social gathering with several new people (also my Fiancee) all of which were taller than I was. When someone crassly pointed that out, I said, "I feel like I'm in level 4 in Mario Brother 3." I was surprised that everyone got it, but with that joke landing they passed the test and I'm pretty sure I can assume other things about them from that one slice of information.
Another great example of this is when talking about food and restaurants throw out some names like Thomas Keller. Although he isn't anywhere as famous as Rachel Ray, knowledge of Keller tends to be associated with a high level of foodie-dom.
This is not to be confused with aggressive opinion stating, or AOS, which I also do when I say things like, "There is no God." or "Organized relgions are evil."

Thus I coin the word- "Testversation"

1 comment:

Capt. BS said...

World 4 was always my favorite. I always made sure that I went through it, even though it was much more efficient to get two whistles in World 1 and then warp straight to World 8.

On a more conversationally-relevant note, I think that while testversation is a very handy tool to have in your kit, it's possible for people to overuse it to the point that no actual conversation ever happens. Sometimes I get caught in that loop, but usually I break out of it by falling asleep.