* Gain time to think: These sounds buy speakers a few extra seconds to formulate their next thought or sentence.
* Signal uncertainty: They can indicate that the speaker is unsure of what to say next or is struggling to find the right words.
* Maintain the floor: In conversation, these sounds can help speakers hold onto the turn in the conversation while they gather their thoughts.
* Soften requests or statements: "Um, can you pass me the salt?" might sound less direct and more polite than simply "Pass me the salt."
It's important to note that:
* They are very common: Most people use filler words, and they're considered normal in most contexts.
* They can be influenced by factors: Factors like stress, anxiety, or the complexity of the topic can increase the use of fillers.
* They can sometimes be distracting: While they are common and generally accepted, excessive use of filler words can make speech sound hesitant and unprofessional.
Overall, "uh" and "um" are a natural part of human speech, serving various functions in communication. While they may be distracting in some situations, they are not necessarily a sign of a lack of intelligence or competence.