käyntisana

Käyntisana, also known as a "filler word" or "hedge" in English, is a linguistic phenomenon where a speaker uses a word or phrase that does not contribute to the meaning of the sentence but serves to fill a pause or to soften the impact of the statement. These words are often used to maintain the flow of conversation, to buy time, or to express uncertainty or tentativeness. Examples of käyntisanat in Finnish include "ehkä" (maybe), "noin" (approximately), and "jotenkin" (somehow). In English, examples include "like," "you know," and "sort of." The use of käyntisanat can vary greatly among different languages and cultures, reflecting differences in communication styles and cultural norms. While some linguists view käyntisanat as unnecessary and potentially distracting, others argue that they play an important role in human communication, helping to create a more natural and fluid conversation.