ええと
ēto[e̞ːto̞]
ええと (ēto) (eeto) is the Japanese way to say "Hmm" or a similar filler word used when a speaker is pausing to think or searching for the right words.
The expression ええと is a filler word used to express hesitation or to signal a pause during a conversation. It is most commonly used when the speaker is actually stuck or is trying to recall a specific piece of information, such as a name, a number or a particular fact.
Which one should you use?
While ええと is used for searching for information, the word Ano can also be used as an informal filler meaning "umm" or "well" to fill gaps in speech or express hesitation.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
ええと is considered an informal expression. Using it frequently in professional or formal settings may make a speaker sound unprepared or uncertain.
How do you pronounce it?
ēto
Did you know?
- While ええと is often used to find information, repeating it too many times can accidentally signal to a Japanese listener that you are being evasive or untruthful.
- In extremely formal 'keigo' speech, speakers often replace fillers like ええと with silence or a polite phrase such as 少々お待ちください ('please wait a moment') to maintain a professional image.
- In Japanese scripts and subtitles, filler words like ええと are often omitted entirely to make the dialogue appear more concise, even if the actor clearly says them aloud.
Examples in context
- Eeto, 来週の予定と合わせて考えてみようかなWell, let me think about it along with next week's schedule
- ええと、名前は何でしたっけ？eeto, namae wa nan deshita kke?Um, what was your name again?
- ええと、ちょっと待ってください。eeto, chotto matte kudasai.Um, please wait a moment.
Example conversation
Ren and Misaki are discussing where to go for lunch.
- 蓮 Renお昼、何が食べたい？Ohiru, nani ga tabetai?What do you want to eat for lunch?
- 美咲 Misakiええと、イタリアンはどうかな？eeto, itarian wa dou kana?Um, how about Italian food?
- 蓮 Renいいよ、あそこに新しい店があるよ。Ii yo, asoko ni atarashii mise ga aru yo.Sure, there is a new shop over there.
- 美咲 Misakiじゃあ、そこにしましょう！Jaa, soko ni shimashou!Then, let's go there!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ええと, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
