This word is like saying 'um' or 'uh' in English. You use it when you are thinking. You also use it when you are trying to remember something.
ええとPrimary
This word is like saying 'um' or 'uh' in English. You use it when you are thinking. You also use it when you are trying to remember something.
ええと、あの方の名前、何でしたっけ？
Um, what was that person's name again?
ええと、すみません。この近くに郵便局はありますか？
Um, excuse me. Is there a post office near here?
今日の会議の議題は、ええと、来月の販売戦略についてです。
The topic for today's meeting is, um, about next month's sales strategy.
ええと、昨日の夜は何を食べたか、全然思い出せないんです。
Let's see... I can't remember at all what I ate last night.
ええと、確かこの本は机の上に置いたはずですが…。
Let's see... I'm pretty sure I put this book on the desk, but...
How you say 'ええと' changes its meaning. A quick 'ええと' means you are finding a word. A long 'ええええと〜' means you are thinking hard. Or maybe you don't want to say something. The sound can go up to get someone's attention.
ええと (eeto) is like えっと (etto). ええと sounds more thoughtful. えっと sounds quicker. Both mean you are thinking. ええと is also like あの (ano). But あの can also mean 'that thing'. ええと only means you are thinking.
Use this when you need a moment to think. It tells the listener you are not finished talking. It stops them from interrupting you.
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