えーと
ēto
The Japanese phrase for "uhh" is えーと (ēto).
えーと is a filler word used when a speaker is pausing to think of what to say next. It is typically used when the speaker is actively searching for a specific word or piece of information.
Which one should you use?
While えーと is a common filler, it is slightly more hesitant and searching than あの. The phrase あの is often used to get someone's attention or signal a pause in a more social context. Additionally, the form えーっと is a relaxed and commonly used phrase in informal settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
えーと is primarily used in casual or semi-formal speech and is considered too informal for highly professional or strictly polite settings. For a more polite and widely used word to provide a moment to collect thoughts, you can use あの. In informal settings, you might also hear なんか, which is an informal expression used to gather thoughts or signal hesitation during relaxed conversation.
How do you pronounce it?
ēto
Did you know?
- In Japanese professional speech, speakers may avoid fillers like えーと by using 'silent pauses', which are culturally interpreted as a sign of composure and careful thinking.
- Japanese listeners use a technique called 'aizuchi' to constantly interrupt a speaker with sounds of agreement. This is the opposite of えーと, which is used by the speaker to fill a gap while thinking.
- Depending on the pitch and intonation, the sound えー can shift from a filler word into an expression of skepticism or mild surprise.
Examples in context
- この提案について、ええと、いくつか考えがあります。Regarding this proposal, well, I have several thoughts.
- この報告書について、あの、重要な点は次のページに詳しく記載されています。Regarding this report, um, the important points are detailed on the next page.
- 明日、えーっと、どこに行きたい？Um, where do you want to go tomorrow?
- あの、なんか、最近疲れてるんだよね。Um, well, you know, I've been tired lately.
- えーと、明日の予定は何でしたっけ？Eeto, ashita no yotei wa nan deshita kke?Uhh, what was the plan for tomorrow again?
- えーと、あの、すみません。Eeto, ano, sumimasen.Uhh, um, excuse me.
- えーと、名前は田中です。Eeto, namae wa Tanaka desu.Uhh, my name is Tanaka.
Example conversation
Two siblings are deciding what to eat for dinner.
- 陽葵 Himari今日の晩ご飯は何にする？Kyoo no bangohan wa nani ni suru?What should we have for dinner tonight?
- 陽太 Yotaえーと、カレーがいいな。Eeto, karee ga ii na.Uhh, I'd like curry.
- 陽葵 Himariカレー、いいよ！Karee, ii yo!Curry sounds good!
- 陽太 Yotaやった！Yatta!Yay!
