Final answer:
Backing up when a stranger asks for the time within arms' length indicates a breach of personal space. Personal space is the physical space around someone, which, if encroached upon, can feel uncomfortable. Cultural norms and social rules guide appropriate distances in various interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a stranger moves inside of arms' length and asks, 'Do you know what time it is?', our backing up is a sign that he has invaded our personal space. Personal space refers to the physical area surrounding someone into which encroachment can feel uncomfortable or threatening. Cultural norms can vary significantly regarding what is considered an appropriate distance to maintain during social interactions. While backing up may also indicate a breach of our comfort zone or privacy, the most direct correlation in a face-to-face interaction is with personal space.
It is important to respect personal boundaries and be aware of non-verbal cues that suggest someone is uncomfortable. In various social situations and cultures, maintaining an arm's length of space can be a common expectation to ensure comfort during face-to-face communication. Be mindful of situations such as handshakes, those have shifted, especially since COVID, and options like a wave or a smile may be more appropriate at times. Additionally, in public settings, remembering rules like not sitting too close to others on a bus or avoiding overstepping boundaries at an ATM can prevent making others uneasy.