Here's why:
* Lack of meaning: "Uh" doesn't have a specific meaning and adds no information to a sentence.
* Informal: It's more common in casual conversations and often indicates hesitation or uncertainty.
* Distraction: In formal settings, it can be distracting and make you sound unprepared or unsure of yourself.
However:
* Common in speech: While not proper English, "uh" is very common in everyday speech. It's a natural part of how people communicate, especially when speaking spontaneously.
* Context matters: The acceptability of "uh" depends heavily on the context. It might be perfectly acceptable in casual conversation but inappropriate in a formal presentation.
Tips for reducing "uh"s:
* Prepare: Know your topic well and practice what you want to say.
* Pause: Instead of saying "uh," take a brief pause to collect your thoughts.
* Use fillers wisely: Sometimes using a more appropriate filler word like "well," "um," or "you know" can sound more natural than simply saying "uh."
Ultimately, whether "uh" is acceptable depends on the situation and your audience. In formal settings, it's best to avoid using it.