Stop ‘Phubbing’

What pops into your head when you think about the causes which could end the civilisation? Probably World War III, natural or man-made disasters, nuclear wars or phubbing. Wait, how does phubbing come here? Yes, “phubbing” has been labelled today, as the end of civilisation.

What is “phubbing”?

The word “Phubbing”was coined recently to describe a unique 21st century phenomenon of snubbing the person in front of you in favour of your phone (Phubbing=Phone+Snubbing). 

A team of language experts had gathered at the University of Sydney and after much deliberation they agreed to introduce the word “phubbing” in the Macquarie Dictionary.

Apparently, we were in need of a word to describe this issue for a while. After all, it would be rare to find someone who hasn’t been in this situation at least once.

The café in which you would have spent evenings hanging out with friends and got relieved of all tension with the first sip of coffee would seem no more familiar. 

It would be a strange room where you are drinking a tasteless coffee and sharing a table with those who indulge in the “cold and rectangular device with pretty lights” while you are trying to hold a conversation.

Thus, when invited again for a hangout, you would recall the experience and reply, with rolling eyes, “Sure, I would love to come over and talk to you while you talk and text to other people all the time.”

Of course, no one likes being ignored. The worst part is the phubber doesn’t realise the effects on the victim. The person phubbed can feel ignored, unimportant and even resentful.

Unknowingly, we are using our phones in a manner that is affecting our real-life connections.

“Phubbing” might seem to be innocuous at once. But, it is capable of destroying relationships (if not the entire civilisation).

If you are feeling distanced from your loved ones recently, take an honest look at your daily phone habits. Taking small steps can save relations or friendships from breaking.

So, the next time you are with someone, put down your phone and look around. 

You will be surprised by the warmth of your relationship that you had been missing!

(Published in The Gulf Today on January 14, 2017)