Expert warns why an ‘Irish Exit’ is almost never a good idea

An expert has revealed that making an 'Irish exit' is almost always a bad idea, but opened up about when could be a good time.

The Irish are known for their traditions - and they're usually pretty good.

Guinness, being lucky, river dancing, are some just to name a few.

But it's safe to say the 'Irish exit' is not recommended by etiquette expert Diane Gottsman, who has said it is almost never acceptable.

Leaving without saying goodbye is a big no-go. (Getty stock images)

While it could be the easiest thing to do at the end of a long night when your social battery is officially drained, it turns out that making a small effort could go a long way.

What is an Irish exit?

Put simply - an Irish exit is when you leave a social gathering without saying goodbye to anyone.

It's something we have definitely all done at one point or another, even if we are too ashamed to admit it.

But Gottsman said it's almost never okay to do, and can come across as rude to hosts who have invited you.

When should you avoid an Irish exit?

According to Gottsman, smaller events and parties are a huge no-go when it comes to swiftly leaving without saying a word.

It's almost never acceptable. (Getty stock image)

She says that leaving a dinner party or a baby shower without thanking the person whose event it is is an absolute 'no'.

Speaking to Today, she said: "A quick and friendly goodbye to the host, or at least a smile and a wave, is the best 'au revoir' you can manage.

"It’s the polite way to end an evening and leave your host thinking you are a wonderful guest.

"There is very little justification for an Irish exit that doesn’t most of the time scream 'rude' to the host."

When can an Irish exit be acceptable?

However, the expert does acknowledge that sometimes emergencies pop up, and that making an Irish exit can't be helped.

She added that it is best to 'reach out to the host by phone, text or thank-you note and let them know you had a great time'.

Gottsman also said it can be slightly more acceptable at a huge function where finding the host is near-impossible, but insisted that a quick goodbye is always preferred.