...And then you're stuck sitting there in total silence with a complete stranger

I hate this! Also when your parents have company over and you've gotta get out your room for whatever reason and have to socialize.. Makes me sick...

"so, how do you know *friend*?"
- "well I met *friend* at .......", or "oh, *friend*'s cousin is my brother's brother-in-law's next-door-neighbour- but one"
etc. Easiest way to meet people EVER

My ex would do this on purpose because he thought it was funny.

Reminds me of the gif with kermit the frog and christian bale