Never interrupt someone who is confidently revealing information you never had to ask for.

People reveal a great deal when they are confident and unchallenged, and the most common way to stop them is to start talking. Every clarification you offer tells them where you already are and helps them adjust. Listening costs nothing and keeps the flow of information running one way. It is not a trick; it is simply declining to interrupt something useful.

In your next difficult conversation, aim to speak less than half the time. Ask a follow-up question where you would normally state your view. You will end up knowing more than you would have, and having given away less.