Filler words are words or phrases that are used to fill pauses or gaps in speech. While they may seem unnecessary, they actually serve an important function in conversation by helping to maintain a natural flow of speech. These words can vary widely between languages, and learning and using them correctly can be an important aspect of speaking a language fluently.

In language and literature classes, we’re often taught that filler words are ‘incorrect’ or the sign of a lazy speaker. We’re pushed into avoiding them entirely and certainly are never taught about them in foreign language classes since they represent a deviance from the standard or “correct” way of speaking. The reality is that speaking naturally means not always following the rules - and that native speakers use filler words all the time. Learning to recognize and use filler words correctly will therefore help you to assimilate and speak more naturally.

Here are some ways that using filler words in another language can help you speak more naturally and fluently:

1. Helps you think while speaking: Filler words give you time to think while you are speaking, which can be especially helpful when you are communicating in a language that is not your native language. They allow you to pause and gather your thoughts without interrupting the flow of the conversation.

2. Enhances fluency: Using filler words can help you speak more fluently and confidently in another language. When you are able to use them correctly and naturally, it can help you sound more like a native speaker and improve your overall fluency in the language.

3. Makes you sound more natural: Filler words are an important part of natural speech patterns in many languages. By using them correctly, you can make your speech sound more natural and authentic, which can help you connect with native speakers and build more meaningful relationships.

4. Improves communication: Filler words can help to clarify meaning and keep the conversation flowing smoothly. When used correctly, they can help to prevent misunderstandings and make communication more effective.

Using filler words in another language can be an important tool for speaking more naturally and fluently. They can help you think while speaking, enhance your fluency, make you sound more natural, and improve communication. Make a point to pay attention to the filler words that native speakers use and then work to incorporate those filler words into your speech. Practice using them strategically as both a point to stop and think or collect your thoughts during a conversation or just to talk more casually and comfortably.

While most every speech-to-text too filters out filler words, Sygmatic adds them back in so you can see and study the patterns that natives speakers follow when using the umm's and ahh's of speaking.