OFTEN HEARD SAYING: "Got a bun in the oven yet?"

THE OFFENSE: Annually asks when you are going to get a man, get married, get pregnant, or get a life.

YOUR COURSE OF ACTION: The busybody wants to feel superior to you by making you feel insecure. In response to her nosy inquiries, ask politely why she is asking — and smile, advises etiquette consultant Sue Fox. This usually embarrasses the busybody enough to make her drop the question. Sarcasm also works, says author Caroline Tiger. Simply look aghast, pause, and reply, "Oh, my gosh, I forgot!" Then move on.