Translation guide
The English filler 'um' is used to pause, hesitate, or show you are thinking. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 'ええと' (ēto) or 'あのう' (anō). The choice depends on formality and context. Unlike English, Japanese fillers can also signal politeness or soften a statement.
To pause while thinking of what to say, similar to English 'um' or 'uh'.
The most common neutral filler for hesitation. Used in casual and semi-formal speech.
ええと、何を言おうとしてたんだっけ。
Um, what was I going to say?
ええと、それはですね…
Um, well, that is...
Polite filler used to soften a statement or get attention. Often used before asking a question or making a request.
あのう、ちょっとお聞きしたいんですが。
Um, I'd like to ask you something.
あのう、駅はどこですか。
Um, where is the station?
Casual, often drawn out. Similar to 'uhh' or 'err'. Common in informal conversation.
えー、なんだっけ。
Uhh, what was it?
Expresses deep thought or hesitation. Often used when pondering a difficult question.
うーん、難しい質問だな。
Hmm, that's a tough question.
To make a statement or request less direct and more polite, similar to 'um' before a favor.
The go-to polite filler before requests or when interrupting. It shows deference.
あのう、お手洗いはどこですか。
Um, where is the restroom?
Literally 'a little', but used as a filler to soften a refusal or negative statement. Often combined with 'あのう'.
In very formal situations, Japanese speakers may use different fillers or avoid them. This covers formal equivalents.
A more formal, drawn-out 'e~' used in speeches or presentations. Not common in daily talk.
ええ、本日はお集まりいただきありがとうございます。
Um, thank you all for gathering here today.
In very formal settings, a brief pause without a filler can be more appropriate than 'um'.
（間）次の議題に移ります。
(pause) Let's move to the next topic.
Use ええと when you are thinking or searching for words. Use あのう when you are about to speak to someone, especially to be polite or get attention. あのう is more common before questions and requests.
ええと、名前は…田中さんです。
Um, the name is... Mr. Tanaka.
あのう、田中さんですか。
Um, are you Mr. Tanaka?
While fillers are natural, using them too much can make you sound hesitant or unprepared. In formal presentations, try to minimize them.
ええと、あのう、その、つまり…
Um, well, that is, I mean...
あのう、ちょっと今日は都合が悪くて…
Um, today is a bit inconvenient...