An awkward silence can easily evolve into a long period of miscommunication. So if you put your foot in your mouth today, rely on honesty to dig you out of that hole. Be real, 'fess up, and all will be forgiven. The worst thing you can do is dance around the truth. You will only end up looking suspicious. Conversely, you're the one on the receiving end of a tacky comment, be generous and try to create an environment where the other person can be real and 'fess up.