Letting Words Flow: My Take on Filler Words

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2–3 minutes

You know, I woke up today and saw a writing prompt that really got me thinking: “What is a word you feel that too many people use?” Honestly, it struck me as a little odd. I mean, who cares if someone has a few favorite words they tend to overuse? It’s all part of their personality, isn’t it?

Picture this: you’re in a coffee shop, surrounded by people chatting. Some are sharing their latest adventures, while others are lost in deep discussions about everything under the sun. And amid this buzz, someone casually drops “literally” into every other sentence. “I literally had the best cup of coffee today!” they say, beaming. It might seem excessive, but to them, that word adds an extra sprinkle of excitement. And honestly, does it really bother anyone?

Here’s the thing—I don’t think it should. Words like “nice,” “interesting,” and “like” can carry a lot of weight in a conversation. They allow people to express themselves in ways that feel comfortable to them, and that’s what really matters. Why do we feel the need to gatekeep language? I mean, when did it become a crime to use a word that resonates with us? We should let people be who they are without worrying about being judged for their word choice.

To be clear, I’m not advocating for sloppy speech or writing. But can we lighten up a little? I believe we need to embrace the quirks in our communication styles instead of knocking them down. Each of us has a unique way of expressing ourselves, and honestly, that diversity is what makes conversations interesting.

So, the next time you hear someone casually peppering their speech with “literally,” “nice,” or “like,” maybe just smile and appreciate their choice. They’re sharing a piece of themselves, and that’s a beautiful thing. Let’s celebrate the words we use as part of our identities rather than critiquing them.

Photo by Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels.com

In the grand scheme of life, it’s not the words themselves that matter; it’s the connection we create with each other. So let’s keep chatting, laughing, and sharing our stories—filler words and all! After all, it doesn’t hurt anyone to let people express themselves in their unique way. And isn’t that what language is all about?

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Responses

  1. traciesulpazo Avatar

    I have no problem with people using those words at all. But when you use it in every sentence doesn’t that become sloppy?

    Just like someone telling me everything they see is amazing…is everything really amazing or can you just not think of a better word choice?

    Overuse a word and somewhere along the way it tends to loose some of its sparkle and meaning. Don’t you think?

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Keito + Kanvas Avatar

      I agree that overusing certain words can diminish their impact and make communication less engaging. A varied vocabulary is essential for conveying precise meaning. Striking a balance between enthusiasm and articulation is important. I appreciate your perspective!

      Liked by 2 people

      1. traciesulpazo Avatar

        And I have no problem with slang or favorite words but when it is played to death that’s the issue.

        Like

  2. Ernie 'Dawg' Avatar

    I tend to agree with Tracie, sometimes a person ends every sentence with so or you see. Over use like this has me losing interest in the conversation.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Keito + Kanvas Avatar

      I totally get where you’re coming from! I’m cool with a filler word here and there, but when it’s like every other word, that’s when it starts to get on my nerves.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. Joey Jones Avatar

    Nice post …..yes, it is what language is about x

    Liked by 1 person

  4. veerites Avatar

    Dear Keito
    It is like the evolution of Darwin to read posts like yours.
    Thanks for liking my post ‘WritingThree’ 🙏

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Graham Stephen Avatar

    Nice post. Kinda interesting. I literally liked it. 😉

    Liked by 1 person

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