ejem

The interjection ejem is a Spanish-language sound imitating throat clearing. It functions as a cue that a speaker is pausing to gain attention, preface a remark, or moderate a forthcoming statement. In English, the closest equivalent is 'ahem'.

In written and spoken discourse, ejem is commonly used to indicate politeness, hesitation, or a need to interrupt without abruptness. It can precede a correction, a clarification, or a request. In dialogue, it helps convey tone and social nuance that might otherwise be conveyed by body language.

Typographically, ejem appears as the phonetic form 'ejem' and is usually written in lowercase; punctuation such as a comma or period may follow or precede the term. It is an onomatopoeic representation rather than a word with lexical meaning, and some style guides treat it as informal or colloquial.

Usage varies by region and medium. It is common in fiction, comics, and informal writing in Spanish, less common in formal academic prose. In subtitles and film scripts, ejem is often used to convey natural speech.

See also: ahem; throat clearing; interjection.