Master Meetings: How to Stop Saying ‘Um’ and ‘Ah’

April 9, 2025 – Intermediate Level

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

Why Filler Words Happen

Have you ever listened to a recording of yourself speaking in a meeting and felt embarrassed by how many times you say “um,” “ah,” or “you know”? These filler words often sneak into our speech when we are thinking of what to say next. For busy professionals, speaking clearly and confidently is crucial, and reducing these filler words can significantly boost your communication skills.

First, understand that using filler words is natural, especially when you’re trying to think or process information. However, too many fillers can distract listeners and make you appear less confident. The good news is, there are effective strategies to help you minimize their use.

Practical Techniques to Reduce Fillers

One simple strategy is to pause instead of using a filler. Short, silent pauses are powerful. They give you time to collect your thoughts and make your speech sound deliberate and confident. Although it might feel uncomfortable at first, your listeners will appreciate the clarity.

Another useful tip is to practice speaking more slowly. Often, filler words pop up because we speak too quickly and run out of things to say before our brain catches up. Slowing down gives you more control and reduces the need for fillers.

Recording yourself during practice sessions can also be beneficial. Listening to your speech allows you to identify exactly when and how frequently you use filler words. With awareness, you can start reducing them consciously.

Additionally, try expanding your vocabulary with transitional phrases such as “moreover,” “on the other hand,” or “as a result.” These words not only help you eliminate fillers but also enhance the structure of your speech.

Building Confidence for Meetings

Another great exercise is rehearsing common meeting scenarios. Practicing common phrases, responses, and presentations beforehand builds muscle memory. This makes it easier for your brain to retrieve words quickly and smoothly during actual meetings.

Lastly, remember that improvement comes gradually. Celebrate small victories—every meeting with fewer fillers is a step forward. Consistent practice leads to noticeable progress over time.

Vocabulary

1. Filler (noun): A meaningless word or sound that fills pauses in speech (e.g., “Using fewer fillers makes you sound professional.”)
2. Crucial (adjective): Extremely important (e.g., “Clear communication is crucial in business meetings.”)
3. Distract (verb): To pull attention away from something (e.g., “Too many fillers can distract listeners.”)
4. Deliberate (adjective): Done intentionally and thoughtfully (e.g., “His deliberate speaking style made him easy to understand.”)
5. Beneficial (adjective): Helpful; producing good results (e.g., “Recording your speeches can be very beneficial.”)
6. Transitional (adjective): Connecting different parts of speech or text (e.g., “Transitional phrases help guide your listener.”)
7. Scenario (noun): A possible situation or event (e.g., “Practicing scenarios builds confidence.”)
8. Rehearse (verb): To practice something repeatedly (e.g., “Rehearse your presentation to reduce anxiety.”)
9. Retrieve (verb): To get back something from memory (e.g., “Retrieving information quickly is key to smooth speech.”)
10. Gradually (adverb): Slowly over time (e.g., “Improvement occurs gradually.”)

Article Questions

1. Why are filler words common during speech?
2. How can pausing instead of using filler words benefit your communication?
3. What advantage does recording your practice sessions provide?
4. Can you name some transitional phrases mentioned in the article?
5. Why is consistent practice important?

Discussion Questions

1. When do you usually find yourself using filler words?
2. Have you ever tried techniques to reduce filler words? What worked best for you?
3. How do you feel when you listen to someone who uses many filler words?
4. Why do you think clear communication is important in professional meetings?
5. Can you share a tip for speaking clearly that you’ve learned from someone else?

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