Gap Fillers are used in English to give you time to think about what you’re going to say without making the other person feel uncomfortable. Some of them also have meaning (but not all)
Also, at some points in the video, my voice and the video don't match up perfectly - sorry if this is a little annoying!
Today I’m going to go over some common gap fillers and how we use them. At the end of the video, I’ll also give you a tip on how to practise them.
Well - Show’s you’re thinking
Well…. I suppose it’s okay as long as you’re back before 10.
I mean
My friends and I use “I mean” all the time.
Firstly, if you make a mistake in a sentence or say something that isn’t clear, you can say: It cost about one million… I mean one thousand pounds.
I often use it when I’m about to state my opinion of feelings about something. Especially something controversial that everyone may not agree with.
I mean, I really love the job, it’s just I hate my coworkers.
Um/er/uh
These are the most common and just used when you can’t think or you’re hesitating
Ummmm, I guess I like you but I’m not sure.
However, for many people, it can be quite annoying. Perhaps it’s the same in your language. I prefer to use:
Hmm
“Hmm” shows that you are thinking and trying to make a decision
Hmmmm.. What will I have for dinner tonight?
Like
“Like” is often used for exaggeration or to count something roughly
I ate like 100 pieces of chocolate.
Using “like” too much can also be annoying since it’s really overused. So it’s a good one to learn to show exaggeration but don’t overdo it.
You know
I found “You know” is one of the most commonly used in conversations. I use it all the time with my guests on the podcast. It can be used when you’re talking about something the other person already knows, but in my experience, it’s really just another way to stall when you’re thinking.
I love the feeling of being in cold water, you know, and just getting that energy rush.
Well, you know, in my view I don’t think we should go to war. You know, it’s not so good.
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Sentences
Come to think of it
Used when you just have a new idea about something
Come to think of it, my friend is a doctor!
I would say
Used when sharing your opinion about something. It’s also much politer than just stating your opinion.
I would say pizza is better, but I’m open to your opinion too.
As far as I can tell
Used when you are quite sure of something but not 100%
As far as I can tell, she’s speaking Spanish, but I might be wrong.
How can I put it? Let’s put it this way…
Used when you’re thinking about how to structure your sentence
How can I put it? Well, when a mummy and daddy love each other very much…. (you see where this is going?)
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How to practise them
In your next conversation or lesson, make it your goal to use one gap filler as much as you can. If you want, let your partner know your intention so they can give you feedback if you’re using it naturally. After you’ve practised this a bit, move onto another filler until you master as many as you can! Conversation is the best way to practice. Also pay close attention to how people speak in conversation when listening.
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Website: ewmichael.com
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Podcast: levelupenglish...
17 окт 2024
