Words to use to buy yourself time
Ever found yourself mid-speech or during a presentation and suddenly blanked out? It happens to the best of us. But the good news is—there are clever, natural phrases you can use to buy yourself a little time to think and regroup.
These simple expressions act as conversational fillers, giving your brain a few seconds to catch up while still keeping your audience engaged. Whether you're speaking on stage, in a meeting, or during an impromptu Q&A, these time-saver phrases can be your secret weapon.
Here are a few effective ones to keep in your pocket:
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1. “You know…”
This is one of the most casual and natural ways to pause without losing your listener’s attention. It gives you a moment to gather your thoughts while still sounding conversational.
Example: “You know… this reminds me of something important we often overlook…”
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2. “Now let me think…”
This phrase signals to your audience that you’re taking a moment to reflect, and they’ll usually give you the grace to do so. It shows thoughtfulness rather than uncertainty.
Example: “Now let me think… the best way to explain this would be…”
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3. “What’s the word for it…”
This buys you time while also making your audience feel like they’re thinking along with you. It keeps the flow going without making the pause awkward.
Example: “It’s on the tip of my tongue—what’s the word for it… oh yes, collaboration!”
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4. “How should I put it…”
A smooth and strategic way to pause, especially when you're trying to phrase something clearly or diplomatically. It signals thoughtfulness and care in your communication.
Example: “How should I put it… it’s not just about results, it’s about the process behind them.”
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Final Thoughts
Mastering the art of buying time when speaking is all about staying calm and sounding confident. With these simple phrases, you don’t have to rush or panic. Instead, you give yourself the space to think—and deliver your message clearly and effectively.
So the next time your mind goes blank, don’t freeze—just reach for one of these phrases and keep the flow going.
