You use this word when you need to think. It's like saying 'um' or 'well' in English. It helps you connect to something you just talked about.
そのPrimary
You use this word when you need to think. It's like saying 'um' or 'well' in English. It helps you connect to something you just talked about.
昨日見た映画、すごく感動したよ。特に、その、最後のどんでん返しがすごかった。
The movie I saw yesterday was so moving. Especially, well, the final plot twist was amazing.
その、今回の提案ですが、いくつか懸念点がございまして、すぐには承認できません。
Regarding the current proposal... well, there are a few points of concern, so we cannot approve it immediately.
この問題の解決策は、その、まず原因を特定することから始めるべきです。
The solution to this problem, well, we should start by first identifying the cause.
パーティーで会った人、名前なんだっけ…あ、その、田中さんだった！
That person I met at the party, what was their name again... oh, right, it was Tanaka-san!
その、もしよろしければ、少しお時間をいただけないでしょうか。
Um, if it's alright with you, could I have a little of your time?
Both "sono" and "ano" are words you use when you are thinking. "Ano" is for starting a new topic. It is also for getting someone's attention. Or when you are looking for a word. "Sono" is different. You use "sono" when you talk about something just said. It is about something the listener already knows. For example, if someone asks about a report. You might say "sono, the data part..." This links back to the report.
Watch out: Do not mix up this filler word with the word "sono" that means "that." The "that" "sono" points to a thing. For example, "sono hon" means "that book." The filler "sono" stands alone. It has a flat sound. You pause after it.
Use this when you need a moment to think. It shows you are not done talking. You can use it to remember something. Or you can use it to plan what to say next.
More formal alternatives(1)
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