Every public-speaking term you'll meet, defined tightly and explained clearly.
The rhythm and flow of speech - the pattern of pauses, emphasis, and pacing across sentences.
A word or phrase used to manage the flow of speech - like "so," "well," "you know," or "I mean" - without contributing core meaning.
A sound, word, or phrase - like "um," "uh," "like," or "basically" - that fills a pause in speech without adding meaning.
The clinical name for fear of public speaking, one of the most common fears people report.
A deliberate silence in speech. Used well, the most powerful tool a speaker has.
The melody of speech - the pattern of pitch, stress, and rhythm that conveys meaning beyond the words themselves.
Any interruption in the flow of spoken language - including filler words, false starts, repetitions, and self-corrections.
Uptalk, also called upspeak or high rising terminal (HRT), is ending statements with a rising intonation, so they sound like questions even when they aren't.
A low, creaky vocal register produced when vocal cords vibrate slowly and irregularly - common at the ends of sentences in modern English.
The number of words a speaker says in one minute. Everyday conversation in American English averages about 150 WPM; speeches are usually planned at about 120 to 150.
