Conversation Openers and Fillers in Japanese

In conversations, openers and fillers are used quite often. They don't always have specific meanings. Openers are used as signals that you are about to say something or to smooth communication. Fillers are usually used for pauses or hesitation. As with Japanese, English also has similar expressions such as "so," "like," "you know," and so on. When you have the opportunity to hear native speakers' conversation, listen carefully and examine how and when they are used. Here are some openers and fillers frequently used.

Marking a New Topic

Saying Something Off Topic

Adding to the Current Topic

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Expressions Used in Letters

By Namiko Abe

Returning to the Main Topic

Jitsu wa 実は -> The fact is ~, To tell the truth

Shortening the Preliminary Topics

Sassoku desu ga さっそくですが -> May I come straight to the point?

Introducing Someone or Something You Have Just Noticed

A, Aa, Ara あ､ああ､あら

"ara" is mainly used by 
female speakers.

Note: "Aa" can also be used to show that you understand. 

Hesitation Sounds

Asking for Repetition