To be honest, I didn’t even think about this. When I try to remember, I can’t remember whether I have “manspreaded” before or not.

I think most men might be doing it without knowing it. Maybe I am not aware enough to detect other people’s needs on public transportation.

I have never been put in a disadvantageous position, not have I ever noticed this phenomenon. If it is common, then I am especially ashamed of my (lack of) observational skills.

Nonetheless, I will take special care when I board public transportation next, to take up space as efficiently as possible.

On a similar note, I have noticed that in supermarkets, trolley etiquette is very important. When and how to move with the trolley, where to park trolleys, how to not block the way or slow other people down, constantly looking out for others and checking whether they’re being inconvenienced in any way by the behaviour of my trolley and I — these are very important skills to know/pick up/learn.

I think it comes down to being considerate of others. Men have conventionally been expected not to be as aware of others needs as women have conventionally been expected to.

It is because of this lack of pressure that men do not put effort into recognising the potential inconveniences caused to others because of them.

Manspreading is one manifestation of this, I feel.