Speech mechanics

Discourse marker

Definition

A word or phrase used to manage the flow of speech — like "so," "well," "you know," or "I mean" — without contributing core meaning.

Discourse markers organize spoken language. They signal turn-taking, transitions, and emphasis. "So" introduces a conclusion. "Well" hedges. "You know" invites agreement.

While useful in conversation, overuse in formal speaking can read as filler. The fix isn't avoidance — it's awareness. Once you can hear yourself using them, you can place them strategically instead of reflexively.

Sources

Schiffrin, "Discourse Markers" (Cambridge University Press) — Cambridge University Press

Related terms

Filler word

A sound, word, or phrase — like "um," "uh," "like," or "basically" — that fills a pause in speech without adding meaning.

Speech disfluency

Any interruption in the flow of spoken language — including filler words, false starts, repetitions, and self-corrections.

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