Week 6 – Filler Words Are Everything
I use “like,” “um,” and “so…,” a lot in every day conversation. Today I am going to talk about Italian filler words and how they can mean everything, and nothing at the same time.
We’ll start with the word “boh”. It’s like a shrug and a head scratch rolled into one word. You know when you’re just not sure about something? That’s when “boh” comes in handy. It’s like saying “I dunno” with an Italian flair. But here’s the fun part, depending on how you say it, “boh” can carry different vibes. It could be a genuine “I’m stumped,” or a laid-back “Eh, who knows?” It’s like the Swiss Army knife of Italian expressions, incredibly versatile and can be used at almost any time!
There are many other words comparable to “boh“, like “allora”, or “ecco”. Need a moment to gather your thoughts? Allora’s got you covered. It’s that perfect filler word, giving you time to think or transition in a conversation. It’s like using “like” or “um” in English, but cooler and better because it’s in Italian. “Allora” can also mean “so” or “then,” adding momentum to your story. Whether you’re starting a new topic or thinking about a question, “allora” is your go-to word.
“Ecco!” It’s like saying “ta-da!” or “here it is.” Whether you’re presenting a dish at dinner or introducing a new idea, “ecco” adds a touch of flair. “Ecco” can also mean “so” or “here we go,” kicking off a story or bringing focus to a key point. In my family, “ecco” is used a lot to kind of say, “there you go,” or “now you’re getting it.” My aunt and I use it a lot as just kind of saying “mhm,” or “you got it.” I think it’s probably my favourite, just above “boh” in a sense where it’s uniquely positive, where “boh” can be not too kind sometimes.
