Conversation fillers

What do the following words have in common? “like” “y’know” “I dunno” “basically” “absolutely” “technically” “just” “well” "cool" "yeah" “an stuff” “uh-huh” “ummm” “errr”. They are conversation fillers; the name “filler” correctly implies they have little value. But that does not mean they have no value or should be eliminated. Good conversationalists can use fillers, but only coherently and with moderation.

Trying to avoid these fillers completely, would be rather impractical because they are a natural part of conversation. Especially, in discussions that require deep thought, or careful statements. Almost meaningless fillers like “Ummm” or “Errr” are placeholders; they indicate the speaker is not ready to give up a turn at speaking. Of course in some cases they might be unwanted, for instance; in a public debate where one is attempting to convey authority or decisiveness.

Words like “basically” and “technically” should not be used as fillers. Too often they are a characteristic of someone who is trying in vain, to fake mastery of what they are saying. If someone would say; “Technically, the knee bone is connected to the thigh bone.” That same statement without the word “technically” sounds every bit as authoritative. These words however can be used, but only if they are used consciously and are relevant. “Although common sense tells you he did a good deed, technically it's still illegal.”

Another important function these “meaningless” fillers play in a conversation is when they are used by listener, because they help regulate the flow of the dialog. When the listener says words like "cool" "yeah" “absolutely” “sure” “uh-huh” they generally tell the speaker that they agree and want them to continue talking. Also most speakers upon hearing the listener interject words like "well" “I dunno” and even "yyeeaahh" (drawn out) would take those words as cue that the listener does not agree and may want a turn to speak.

So during future conversations, think about how and when these fillers are used, even though they are almost “meaningless” they still are integral part of conversation. And also keep in mind that they are important in maintaining flow in conversation, and without them one may appear too formal or stiff. As a result that may break up the flow of conversation enough to terminate it.

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