Er: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ˜ฌ
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Er

 

[ ษœหr ]

Verb / Interjection
Context #1 | Verb

express hesitation

To utter a sound or word in hesitation or contemplation. Often used when a speaker is unsure or is thinking about what to say next.

Synonyms

ah, uh, um

Examples of usage

  • Er, I'm not sure about that.
  • He paused and said, 'Er, let me think about it.'
  • Er, can you repeat the question?
  • She started to answer, but then said, 'Er...'
  • Er, I forgot my keys.
Context #2 | Interjection

indicating hesitation

A sound made to indicate hesitation or uncertainty during speech, often used to buy time while thinking.

Synonyms

uh, um, well

Examples of usage

  • Er, I believe we need more information.
  • Er, that's an interesting point.
  • Er, where should we go next?
  • Er, how do we proceed from here?
  • Er, is this the right way?

Translations

Translations of the word "Er" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น ele

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคตเคน

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช er

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ dia

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฒั–ะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ on

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅฝผ (ใ‹ใ‚Œ)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท il

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ รฉl

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท o

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ทธ (geu)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‡ูˆ (hu)

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ on

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ on

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ไป– (tฤ)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ on

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ hann

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะพะป (ol)

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ˜แƒก (is)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ o

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ รฉl

Etymology

The interjection 'er' originated in English as a sound representing hesitation or uncertainty in speech. Its phonetic form reflects a vocalization that occurs frequently during conversational pauses. Historically, it has roots in the 'um' sound, which also serves a similar purpose in conversation. The use of 'er' can be traced back to the early 20th century and has been increasingly recognized as a common feature of natural spoken English. Linguistic studies indicate that such vocal fillers are prevalent in everyday speech, helping speakers navigate moments of doubt or reflection. As communication patterns evolve, the usage of 'er' continues to play a significant role in informal dialogue, acting as a cue for listeners to remain engaged while the speaker gathers their thoughts.