I ask a specific enough question from someone I don't typically talk to, that I know has a non controversial answer. They answer it and it shows I'm thinking of nuts and bolts and how things work and everyone moves on.

You'd be surprised how many folks think "oh this guy knows all about / is really thinking about that thing to ask that kind of specific question".

Just a quick one like that works well. You do have to know the room and the situation to avoid falling into some messes but it works.