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Stammering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stammering

[หˆstรฆmษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

communication difficulty

Stammering is a speech disorder characterized by repetition of sounds, syllables, or words; prolongation of sounds; and interruptions in speech. It is often accompanied by physical tension and struggle to speak.

Synonyms

speech impediment, stuttering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stammering

Used to describe a momentary difficulty in speaking, often caused by nerves or excitement. It can happen to anyone at some point.

  • He started stammering when he tried to answer the difficult question.
  • Her stammering became more pronounced when she was anxious about the presentation.
stuttering

Used to refer specifically to a chronic condition characterized by repeated sounds, syllables, or words, which significantly impacts the person's ability to speak fluently. It is usually considered a more severe speech disorder than stammering and often requires therapeutic intervention. It may carry a negative connotation.

  • She has been stuttering since childhood but is receiving therapy to help manage it.
  • His stuttering became more noticeable under stress, making it hard for him to perform public speaking.
speech impediment

An umbrella term used in medical or formal contexts to refer to any persistent disorder that affects a person's ability to speak normally. It can refer to various conditions, including stuttering and other speech difficulties.

  • The therapist specialized in helping children with speech impediments.
  • He had to work hard to overcome his speech impediment and improve his communication skills.

Examples of usage

  • He has been struggling with stammering since childhood.
  • Her stammering becomes more pronounced when she is nervous.
Context #2 | Verb

speaking

To stammer means to speak with involuntary pauses and repetitions. It can be a result of nervousness, lack of confidence, or a speech disorder.

Synonyms

hesitate, stumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stammering

Used when a person involuntarily repeats or prolongs sounds, syllables, or words while speaking, often due to nervousness or a speech disorder.

  • He couldn't answer the question without stammering
  • She started stammering when giving the presentation
hesitate

Appropriate when someone pauses before saying or doing something, typically due to uncertainty or caution.

  • He seemed to hesitate before making his decision
  • She didn't hesitate to call for help
stumble

Used when a person briefly loses their train of thought or makes a mistake while speaking, also can refer to tripping while walking.

  • She stumbled over her words during the interview
  • He stumbled on the last step and almost fell

Examples of usage

  • She stammered through her presentation due to stage fright.
  • He stammered out an apology for his mistake.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Stammering can be linked to anxiety; feeling nervous may make speaking smoothly harder.
  • It often begins in childhood and can be influenced by genetics or environment.
  • Many people who stammer manage to speak smoothly when singing or when they communicate in a relaxed setting.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, stammering has been viewed as a form of spiritual gift or reflection of deep thought.
  • Famous figures, like King George VI of the United Kingdom, worked to overcome their stammering and inspire others.

Literature

  • Stammering is often portrayed in literature to depict characters struggling with internal conflicts or social anxieties.
  • Notable works, such as 'The King's Speech,' explore how overcoming stammering can lead to personal and public triumph.

Science

  • Research shows that about 1% of the world's population stammers, with many finding effective therapeutic solutions.
  • Neuroscience studies indicate that differences in brain activity may contribute to speech fluency challenges.

Origin of 'stammering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old Norse 'stammer,' meaning to stutter or hesitate while speaking.
  • It has roots in Middle English where it referred to speaking unclearly or faltering.

The word 'stammering' originated from the Old English word 'stamerian', which meant to make a sudden, involuntary pause in speech. Over time, the word evolved to its current form to describe a speech disorder characterized by interruptions and repetitions. Stammering has been a recognized condition throughout history, with various treatments and therapies developed to help individuals overcome this communication difficulty.

See also: stammer.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,729, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.