Cognitive Signals in Speech
Filler words like "um" and "uh" are often seen as nuisances, but they actually serve important communicative functions. They signal cognitive effort and indicate to listeners that the speaker needs a moment to gather their thoughts. Interestingly, the type of filler used can affect listener engagement and attention, with "uh" suggesting a shorter pause compared to "um." This insight highlights the complexity of verbal communication and the subtle cues we provide in conversation.In this clip
From this podcast

Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
91. Um, like, so: How Filler Words Can Create More Connected, Effective Communication
Related Questions