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Steve
HulpleerkrachtCan you suggest acceptable "filler words" an English student can use to cover gaps in speaking? “Like" and "um" are not good, but there are phrases and words that let the speaker take a mental pause while deciding how to continue?
What would you suggest?
6 dec. 2024 15:39
Antwoorden · 6
1
I use “let’s see” sometimes.
8 december 2024
1
I am sorry to say that the best practice, by far, is to avoid ANY kind of filler words. Listen to a good speaker, and notice that a short pause is not a problem. It can even help "punctuate" the speech.
If you "freeze" and get stuck, just stop, take a few breaths, and continue. It is awkward while it is happening, but the audience will forget it immediately.
There are two problems with fillers. a) They just do not help the listener. b) Speakers always get stuck on personal favorite fillers.
8 december 2024
1
I use ‘so’ a lot! Then, because, well, like are quite common and probably used the most.
7 december 2024
Midnight
2 dec. 2025 02:06
@Pip - Thanks! I must warn you there's a legion of people who detest "so" as a filler or introductory word. They're intractable, and I find it best to avoid getting them riled up.
8 december 2024
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Steve
Taalvaardigheden
Engels, Frans, Portugees, Spaans
Taal die wordt geleerd
Engels, Portugees
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