C.f. “the troubles” (and that’s just the tip of the iceberg)…

The British Etiquette Rules Nobody Will Ever Actually Tell You You’re Breaking.

“A bit awkward” means a serious problem has occurred and is likely still occurring. “Not ideal” is close to disaster. “Quite brave” means we would not have done what you just did, and are slightly alarmed that you did. And “interesting,” delivered with the smallest of pauses beforehand, is very often the last polite word you’ll get before the subject is quietly and permanently changed.