Page 48 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business

Interacting in a Small Group

Culture Hints: When searching for words, use pauses (short
moments of silence) to leave time to think instead of saying
“um,” “uh,” “er,” or “you know.” However, don’t pause too long.
Americans are not comfortable with silence and may not be
patient. They might jump in and interrupt you before you con-
tinue your thought. There is another technique for giving yourself
more time to think. Have a bottle of water handy and when you
need a little extra time, take a sip before continuing to speak.
Also, remember that what you are saying in these casual
conversations doesn’t have to be grammatically perfect, just
understood.

Phrases to Say Before Pausing

Please give me a moment.
I need a minute to think of a word.

May I have a second or two to think?
I’d like to continue, please.

Culture Hint: Toastmasters is an international organization
devoted to improving public speaking. There are groups in many
companies as well as public groups that meet in libraries and
other public places. A Toastmasters group is often a good place to
build presentation skills and to cure jittery nerves. These groups
are reasonably priced and certainly worth an initial meeting or
two to at least observe the proceedings.

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