7 Common Verbal Fillers We Use! Are They Good or Bad?

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where you couldn’t help but notice the excessive use of certain words or phrases that seemed to serve no real purpose? These are known as verbal fillers, and they often find their way into our speech without us even realizing it. While some people may find them harmless, others consider them to be bad habits that hinder effective communication. In this article, we’ll explore seven common verbal fillers and whether they are good or bad for communication.

“Um” and “Uh”:

These two fillers are perhaps the most prevalent and widely recognized. They tend to slip into our speech when we need a moment to gather our thoughts or when we want to avoid awkward silences. In moderation, they can be considered acceptable, but excessive use can make a speaker appear uncertain or unprepared. It’s important to be mindful of their frequency and work towards reducing them in order to improve the clarity and flow of your speech.

Examples:

“Um, I need a moment to think about your question.”

“Uh, I’m not sure if I can make it to the meeting tomorrow.”

“Like”:

This filler has become increasingly popular, especially among younger generations. Often used to create pauses or emphasize a point, “like” can be seen as a way to bridge ideas or give the speaker a moment to think. However, excessive use of “like” can make a person sound less confident and can distract listeners from the main message. It’s advisable to use “like” sparingly and only when it adds value to your speech.

Examples:

“I was, like, really excited when I heard the news.”

“She was, like, so mad at him for forgetting their anniversary.”

“You know”:

Similar to “like,” this filler seeks validation or agreement from the listener. While occasional use can help build rapport, constant repetition can become irritating and undermine the speaker’s credibility. Instead of relying on “you know,” try using other ways to engage the listener, such as asking open-ended questions or providing clear explanations.

“The weather is, you know, unpredictable this time of year.”

“I’m trying to, you know, finish this project before the deadline.”

“Basically”:

This filler often finds its way into explanations as a way to simplify complex ideas or summarize information. However, its excessive use can make the speaker appear unconfident or unsure of their own knowledge. While using “basically” occasionally can be helpful, strive to deliver your message with clarity and precision, avoiding unnecessary fillers.

Examples:

“Basically, what I’m saying is that we need to cut costs.”

“The plan is to, basically, start from scratch and rebuild the website.”

“Well”:

Starting a sentence with “well” is a common way to gather one’s thoughts or signal that a response is coming. It can also serve as a transition between ideas. Although “well” is generally considered harmless, using it excessively can lead to a lack of conciseness in speech. Being mindful of your usage will help you maintain a more focused and engaging conversation.

Examples:

“Well, I think we should consider all the options before making a decision.”

“Well, I haven’t thought about it that way before.”

“Actually”:

Often used as a way to emphasize or correct information, “actually” can be seen as a filler if it is overused. While it can provide clarification in some instances, relying too heavily on this word may give the impression that the speaker lacks confidence or is unsure of their statements. Aim to use “actually” sparingly and only when it adds genuine value to your communication.

Examples:

“I actually saw her at the grocery store yesterday.”

“The movie was actually better than I expected.”

“So”:

The word “so” has gained popularity as a filler in recent years. It often acts as a transitional word to connect thoughts or start a new topic. When used sparingly, it can enhance the flow of conversation. However, excessive use of “so” can make a speaker appear indecisive or uncertain. Strive to be mindful of its frequency and use it purposefully.

Examples:

“So, let’s get started with the first item on the agenda.”

“I was thinking of going to the park, so do you want to join me?”

The use of verbal fillers can either enhance or hinder effective communication. While some fillers are acceptable in moderation, excessive use can diminish clarity, confidence, and the overall impact of your speech. Being aware of these fillers and working towards reducing them will help you become a more engaging and persuasive communicator. So, the next time you engage in a conversation, try to minimize these fillers and see the positive impact it can have on your communication skills.