What are filler words?
If you want to stop using filler words, then we need to start with the basics. First, let’s get aligned on what those pesky filler words are and what they do. They’re the little, often unconscious words we blurt out, like “um,” and “uh”. Often, they find a way to sneak into our conversations without us even noticing.
They serve as placeholders when our brain is busy figuring out our next thought. And they aren’t always bad! But overusing filler words can really take away from our clarity and impact when we’re doing anything from public speaking to podcasting.
But overusing filler words can really take away from our clarity and impact when we’re doing anything from public speaking to podcasting.
@ashlynnrudzinski
And yes, Ashlynn is right. Younger generations, especially females, tend to use filler words more often.
Why do people say um?
This is one of those puzzling questions that requires taking a step back to answer.
There are plenty of reasons people use filler words. Interestingly, Valerie Fridland, a professor of sociolinguistics at the University of Nevada in Reno (aka, a language expert) remarked on Stanford’s Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast that research suggests women tend to ‘manage’ or run conversations, so they over-rely on filler words to keep a discussion flowing.
This makes sense. We tend to say um as a natural part of speaking; it gives them a moment to collect their thoughts. And we can’t always be go, go, go!
How to stop using filler words
So, how do we break the habit of using filler words? It’s such a popular question that this Reddit thread about the topic has over 50 replies! Everyone has an opinion. But this article focuses on what the research tells us. And based on reading dozens of academic papers, the process should always start with awareness.
By focusing on deliberate speech and mindfulness, you can gradually reduce your reliance on fillers.
3 Steps to Reducing filler words
- Be conscious: Notice when you’re about to use a filler word and pause instead (Source: Harvard, 2018, How To Stop saying “Um,”, “Ah”, and “You Know”.)
- Slow down: A slower pace allows your mind to catch up with your speech, minimizing the urge to fill gaps with “um.” (Source: American Physiological Society, 2022)
- Get comfortable with silence: Embrace pauses as natural elements of conversation instead of rushing to fill them (Source: American Physiological Society, 2022)
Eliminating filler words
Remember that eliminating filler words isn’t altogether necessary. Even the former United States President, Barack Obama, has been known to let an “umm” and “uh” slip out here and there, tactfully! It’s when we really rely on filler words that our communication becomes less clear and more cluttered. Finally, remember that focusing on how to stop saying like and um is a journey. With patience and practice, you’ll develop a more confident and impactful speaking style.
Q&A
How to stop saying um
If you want to stop saying um, you’d use the same approach as with any filler word. They’re all the same! And once you start using one filler word less, you’ll find it easier to get rid of other ones too.
How to stop using filler words in public speaking
While it’s important to work on reducing your filler words, remember that a well-placed pause can sometimes be more effective than forcing every moment with speech. In public speaking, the goal isn’t to eliminate every pause but to maintain clarity and connection with your audience. Thorough preparation and practice are key. Rehearse your presentation with mindful pauses, and consider feedback from peers to fine-tune your delivery.
How to stop using filler words when presenting:
Let’s say you’re presenting on your computer during a big meeting. Practice your presentation repeatedly helps, especially in front of a mirror. We also built an app, UmmLike, for this very reason! It delivers instant feedback which is the #1 research-proven way to improve your communication quickly and efficiently.