A conversational tactic in which someone dismisses or undermines another person by questioning their identity, status, or perceived relevance, rather than engaging with the actual topic or argument at hand. Often used to shift focus away from the subject matter, it serves as a subtle (or not-so-subtle) power move intended to challenge someone’s credibility, diminish their voice, or frame them as some random person in the discussion.
Guy 1: “Man, this dude’s music is straight garbage. I don’t get how anyone listens to him.”
Guy 2: “I mean, I get where you’re coming from, but honestly, his production’s clean and his flow’s not that bad.”
Guy 3: “Nigga who even are you? Nobody is talking to you. You’re just some random jumping in.”
Guy 2: “Bro, I’m just giving my take. It’s a public convo.”
Guy 1: “Exactly. Why are you always egoing people, man? Just stick to the topic.”