How to use filler words like boh and tipo naturally
To use filler words like “boh” and “tipo” naturally, it helps to understand their common conversational roles and contexts with some tips:
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“Boh” is an informal filler used to express uncertainty or lack of knowledge, similar to saying “I don’t know” or “who knows” casually. Native speakers often use it when they want to sound relaxed or nonchalant about not having an answer. For example, if asked a question you don’t know the answer to, you can simply say “Boh!” to indicate indifference or uncertainty.
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“Tipo” is used similarly to the English filler “like.” It is very common in everyday spoken Italian, especially among young people, and helps buy time to think or soften statements. It often appears when listing things, giving examples, or inserting approximate descriptions, e.g., “Voglio comprare tipo una giacca tipo lunga” (“I want to buy like a jacket, like a long one”). It should be used moderately, as overuse can make speech sound less clear or too casual.
General usage tips:
- Use these fillers at natural pauses or when you need hesitation time without awkward silence.
- Combine them sparingly with other filler words to maintain a conversational tone without being repetitive.
- Avoid overusing them in formal contexts to keep communication clear and professional.
- Listen to native conversations or Italian media to get a sense of natural rhythm and placement of fillers.
In short, “boh” expresses a casual “I don’t know,” and “tipo” functions like “like” to soften or elaborate statements. Their natural use involves placing them at conversational pauses or when searching for the right words, making speech feel more authentic and informal. 1, 8, 10