I believe the word “actually” is only used as a subconscious stalling tactic, till the next thought arrives. Like word fillers, used constantly the word “actually” can be distracting to the listener. Especially if one is speaking in metaphors.

Here’s a shout out to your club Judy thanks for stopping by.

http://toastedsage.freetoasthost.net/index.html

I enjoyed reading about the “ah’s” and “um’s” you discussed. In our Toastmasters club, Toasted Sage, we’ve noted that folks use the word “actually” far too frequently as a filler.

I look forward to reading more of your blogs.

V-8 moment–Home page! I’m trying to make my blog as interactive as I can. Keep checking back more will be added. By far these comments are the most fun.

–Billy

Your a point of proof. Once you know the subject material, much of what you have to say falls in line. Wether it be 4 or 400, you HAD to defend your thesis. You had an audience and I’m sure you will again. Kudos to you. Keep defending you ideas.

–Billy

I got stuck on the about page, I couldn’t get back home. You may want to add a home button.

Good luck and have fun with your blog.

Great tips, I know I could definitely benefit from it as I probably fall into the category that most do in that I am not a fan of public speaking. However, when I defended my thesis at RIT I was pretty comfortable presenting as I presented material I knew very well and had practiced, albeit in front of only 4 people. I will have to keep your tips in mind for the future. Thanks.

President Obama is a very good orater, no doubt about it. I remember seeing him on TV in a “town square” Q & A and he had quite a few word fillers. But I imagine if anyone has to choose his words carefully it would be him.

I agree the ya knows are annoying. As well as you know what I mean? Some British have a cultural propensity to end every sentence with a question, don’t they? It drives you mad, doesn’t it? It’s quite ridicules when you think of it, isn’t it? Read this in your best English accent and you’ll know what I’m saying, wont you?

I’ve mentioned to my husband on more than one occasion that I’m so impressed with President Obama. He reads his speeches with such meaning in each word that it’s clear he has done his homework. There’s someone I used to work with who spoke in such a polished manner and I think her secret was thinking about what she wanted to say before she said it. She selected her words carefully and didn’t waste them. (Easier said than done!)