What’s the polite way to call attention to someone’s talking tic? Don’t. Or if you must, do so only if you believe pointing it out will be constructive. And stick to habits people can easily change. “Lead by saying how much you’re enjoying the conversation and that you’re bringing up the issue for that reason,” says etiquette authority Cindy Post Senning. Be kind and honest, and talk about how the other person’s speech affects you. “This will help focus her attention on what exactly about her behavior is difficult for listeners,” says Post Senning. For example, if the quirk is interrupting, say, “I’ve noticed lately that I have a tough time getting my thoughts out when I’m receiving feedback from you so quickly.” If the problem is purely linguistic, such as mispronouncing a word, make a small and offhand comment. “I try to go with something like ‘Oh, I always thought of it as such and such, but maybe I should look it up,’” says linguist Geoffrey Nunberg.