When I mentioned to university colleagues that I was also working as a science journalist, sometimes the only reaction I got was — at best — a kind of polite smile. (sciencemag.org)
If you wan na talk about the latest trends and newest styles, I will probably respond with a polite smiles and head nods that clearly signal my utter ignorance on the topic. (sortacrunchy.net)
The choices in responding, if with more than a polite smile and change of subject, must depend on whether the person is curious or has judgments. (touchstonez.com)