Is it awkward to pick up chopsticks halfway?

Not awkward. Pick up chopsticks halfway because you don't want to waste a pair of chopsticks, and onlookers won't laugh at themselves. Instead, they will praise their actions and don't feel embarrassed. This kind of thing should be done boldly and confidently, because it is a sign of thrift, so it won't be embarrassing. Chopsticks should be taken home for disinfection as soon as they are picked up on the road, because there are many bacteria and viruses on the road.