Sometimes, during a conversation, someone tells me some fact or shares some knowledge and I reply by saying "I know". Would that be a rude thing to say? I feel very awkward when I say this and want to avoid as I fear the other person may just not go in depth into the topic hearing this.
Is there a better word or other way to deal with this awkwardness during a conversation?
Best Answer
If you're strictly looking for a different word or phrase maybe try: "Yes, I've read/heard about that.". It implies some knowledge, but isn't quite so final like "I know [everything about this and don't want to discuss it further!]"
But like many things concerning language this is heavily dependent on the context, especially
A friendly "Oh yes, I know." combined with inviting body language is quite different from a brusque, annoyed "I know.". This, particularly tone, is the major part and not necessarily easy, as those things are rather subjective.
Personally I think this is only as awkward as you let it and I don't think that simply using a different word will help you with that.
This implies you actually want to continue the conversation. If the questioner isn't obviously aiming for a short, confirming answer like "I know", you could also add a question to your reply or throw in a little tidbit about the topic yourself to communicate your interest in the conversation.
Any further advice would probably not be in the scope of English learning and more appropriate in the context of psychology or something similar.