This is a very interesting topic. I don't have trouble ending a conversation since I use the "It was nice to see you" technique or some version thereof. But I have a neighbor who is notoriously difficult to talk to. I bumped into him yesterday and it was awkward as usual but I just realized that he is very efficient in his verbal responses, quick and to the point. That isn't necessarily a bad trait but if I want more from him then asking a question that has a "yes" or "no" response won't work. I need to ask something open-ended, like "Tell me about your golf tournament last weekend, your wife said you played well". And even then, I don't think I'll get much of a reply. It just isn't his style.
Just giving this consideration will make it easier next time I see him because I can understand/accept how he is a little better and be grateful he isn't one of those hanger-ons who keeps you tied up for hours if you let them :-)) Thank you for bringing this up.
Thank