Fillers are a kind of non-words that native speakers will use in the middle of sentences or when they’re about to say something.
They can be sounds such as ‘hmm’, ‘um’ or ‘like’. They’re what makes speech natural and native-like.
These fillers are not just random sounds; they serve a purpose in conversation. They help to break up long pauses and provide time for the speaker to think of what to say next. This makes the conversation flow smoothly and naturally.
Moreover, fillers can also be used strategically to show that you are thinking or considering what to say next. When trying to remember a word or phrase, saying ‘um’ or ‘like’ will indicate that you are processing the information, which makes you seem more thoughtful and intelligent to the listener.
And while fillers can make your speech sound more natural, overuse can come across as unprofessional or annoying. So, try to find a balance and only use them when necessary.
