VanishedOne

I don't think it should come across as harsh to anyone, simply because of the fact that it's directed at behaviour rather than people. It would've been harsh and uncalled for for me to imply that the mere overuse of an in-joke implies any sort of negative trait in a person, but I didn't. I just said it's weird behaviour, and it is. Being weird and cringeworthy doesn't mean you're a weird, cringeworthy person, just that you are acting as such in that moment.

It might have come across less confrontationally if it had been your own status, rather than a reply to one about a fishing acronym. Taffing weirdo. :-P

Well I could've done that thing the cool kids are doing where I go "neat." and completely nullify any opportunity for further comment. But look at us, all here, having a conversation. Great success.