When learning Japanese, one thing that can truly make your conversations sound more natural is the use of filler words. Filler words are those little sounds or phrases we use to fill in gaps while we think, or to keep the conversation flowing smoothly. Japanese is rich in these fillers, and they can help make your conversations sound more relaxed and native-like. Today, in this post, we’ll go over ten of the most common Japanese filler words and explain when to use them.

1. えーっと (eetto)

Meaning: “Umm…”
When to use: Use “eetto” when you’re pausing to think or need a moment to gather your thoughts. It’s a great way to keep the conversation flowing even when you’re unsure of what to say next, similar to the English “umm.”

2. そうそう (soosoo)

Meaning: “Yeah, exactly,” “That’s right”
When to use: Use “soosoo” when you want to agree enthusiastically or confirm what someone else is saying. It’s similar to saying “exactly” or “that’s right” in English, and it helps convey active engagement in the conversation.

3. なんか (nanka)

Meaning: “Like,” “Something like”
When to use: Use “nanka” to soften what you’re saying or when you can’t quite find the right word. It’s similar to the English use of “like” when you’re being a bit vague or casual.

4. あの (ano)

Meaning: “Uh,” “Well”
When to use: Use “ano” when you need a moment to think or want to soften what you’re about to say. It’s often used to politely get someone’s attention or to hesitate before making a statement, similar to “uh” or “well” in English.

5. なるほど (naruhodo)

Meaning: “I see,” “That makes sense”
When to use: This filler is perfect for showing understanding or acknowledgment. Use “naruhodo” when you want to express that you understand what the other person is saying, similar to saying “I get it” in English.

6. まあ (maa)

Meaning: “Well,” “I guess”
When to use: Use “maa” to show that you’re not completely sure or to give a noncommittal response. It’s often used to start a sentence when you’re hesitating or don’t want to sound too strong in your opinion.

7. とりあえず (toriaezu)

Meaning: “For now,” “Anyway”
When to use: Use “toriaezu” when you want to indicate something provisional or temporary. It’s often used when you’re about to decide on something for the time being, similar to saying “for now” in English.

8. ちょっと (chotto)

Meaning: “A little,” “Kind of”
When to use: “Chotto” can be used as a hesitation filler or to soften what you are about to say, especially when you want to politely refuse or downplay something. It’s like saying “kind of” or “a bit” in English.

9. そうだね (soodane)

Meaning: “Yeah,” “I agree”
When to use: Use “soodane” when you want to agree with someone or acknowledge what they’re saying. It’s a very natural way to show active listening, similar to saying “yeah, right” in English.

10. えー (ee)

Meaning: “Uh”
When to use: Use “ee” when you need a brief moment to think or hesitate. It’s similar to “uh” in English, often used to fill pauses in conversation. It’s like saying “I wonder” or “maybe” in English, often to indicate that you’re not entirely convinced or are considering possibilities.

Why Filler Words Are Important

Filler words might not carry much meaning, but they play an important role in keeping conversations smooth and natural. Japanese filler words can make you sound less rigid and more in tune with the rhythm of the language. They also give you time to think and show that you’re engaged in the conversation.

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to get comfortable with these filler words is to practice using them in real conversations. Start with one or two, like “えーっと(eetto)” and “そうだね(soodane),” and gradually add more as you get comfortable. Listening to native speakers, such as in TV shows or podcasts, can also help you get a sense of how these fillers are used naturally.

With these ten filler words, your Japanese conversations are bound to feel more relaxed and native-like. Don’t be afraid to use them—they’re the secret ingredient to sounding more fluent!

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