Teenagers on Filler Words

10 Questions

What is the main topic of discussion in the provided text?

The impact of filler words on communication

When did the word 'like' become a common filler word in American English, according to John McWhorter?

The late 1970s

What is one argument in favor of using filler words, according to some teenagers?

They serve as a tool to communicate that someone might not be done speaking their thoughts

What is one difference between the use of filler words in the past and present, according to some teenagers?

The space that older generations were used to might have been normal then and not meant someone was done speaking

What was done to the student comments before they were published?

They were lightly edited for length

What is one of the purposes of using filler words in conversations?

To give the speaker time to think before responding

How did English speakers used to deliver their speech in the past?

With a lot of pauses between words

What is one potential downside of using filler words, according to one of the students?

They can become annoying if used too frequently

Why does one of the students believe that using filler words is important in conversations?

Because it helps to build closer bonds and foster greater connections with others

What is one possible reason why English speakers use filler words, according to the text?

Because they are trying to please others and avoid conflict

Study Notes

Filler Words in Communication

Filler words, such as "like," "um," and "you know," are commonly used in conversations, but there is debate over whether they improve or hinder communication.
Historically, people used to pause between thoughts before the widespread use of filler words in the late 1970s.

Defending Filler Words

Some teenagers argue that filler words serve as a tool to communicate that someone is not done speaking their thoughts, giving them time to think without being interrupted.
Filler words can make conversations less awkward and help with the flow of conversation.
They can also convey that someone is struggling to describe what they mean, making it easier for the listener to understand.

Negative Views on Filler Words

Some believe that using fewer filler words makes someone sound better as a speaker.
Excessive use of filler words can become annoying to the speaker and the listener.

Evolution of Filler Words

English speakers have evolved to use filler words to soften the delivery of their speech, making it sound more fluid and less jerky.
In the past, English speakers often paused between words, whereas now filler words are used to increase fluidity and decrease dramatic effect.