When we learn a language, we often want to pick up the usual filler words so we do not sound like students. That false sense of using them to appear to know more than we really do is very common.

At this point you may be wondering whether using filler words is a good thing or a bad one. The answer is the one our grandmothers used to give us: a little is a pleasure, too much is a chore. In other words, if your whole way of speaking rests on ending every sentence with some sort of tag, it will be obvious a mile off that you are nothing more than a student with a great deal left to learn. So knowing when to use them, and how, is essential. This week we have put together a short selection of filler words that could come in very handy if you are studying German.

German filler words that can help you, and help you a lot:

Gell?: If you are the sort of person who loves to finish a statement fishing for a response, this is your best filler. It literally means “right?”. When you are a beginner, it is sure to come in useful.

Oder so etwas: When you want to round off a sentence and do not know what else to add, saying “oder so etwas” will help. It means “or something like that”, but as we have just said, it is best not to overdo it.

Toll!: One very important thing when we speak a language that is not our mother tongue is being able to show our emotions. For that, for showing enthusiasm, this filler is perfect. It means “GREAT”.

Schade!: If “toll” is there for enthusiasm, “Schade” is there for saying “what a shame”. Another way of showing how we feel.

Genau: “Correct”, “exactly”, “that’s right”. A very brief, concise way of answering a question. Essential on your list of fillers. Filler words are part of what makes each language unique. They help speakers express themselves better, buy time to think while someone replies, and generally find their feet in the language. However, when someone ends every sentence with a tag, or even always the same one, it shows they do not have a firm enough grip on the language. If you would like good German lessons, get in touch with us and we will give you more information about language courses in Valencia. We have a wide range of options and the best teachers in Valencia. Follow us on social media and keep up with all our news. You will find us on facebook, instagram and Linkedin.