Actually [ak-choo-uh-lee]
Crutch words are words that we slip into
sentences in order to give ourselves more time to think, or to emphasize a
statement. Over time, they become unconscious verbal tics. Most often, crutch
words do not add meaning of a statement. Actually is the perfect
example of a crutch word.
It is meant to signify something that exists in
reality, but it is more often used as a way to add punch to a statement (as in,
"I actually have no idea"). The next word is one of the most
chronically misused crutch words in English.
Literally [lit-er-uh-lee]
This adverb should be used to describe an action
that occurs in a strict sense. Often, however, it is used inversely to
emphasize a hyperbolic or figurative statement: "I literally ran
300 miles today." Literally is one of the most famously used crutch words
in English. The next
one, however, may surprise you.
Basically [bey-sik-lee]
This word is used to signal truth, simplicity,
and confidence, like in "Basically, he made a bad decision."
It should signify something that is fundamental or elementary, but too often
this word is used in the context of things that are far from basic in order to
create a sense of authority and finality.
Honestly [on-ist-lee]
This crutch word is used to assert authority or
express incredulity, as in, "Honestly, I have no idea why he said
that." However, it very rarely adds honesty to a statement. The next
crutch word is perhaps the most famous one out there.
Like [lahyk]
The cardinal sinner of lazy words like is
interspersed in dialogue to give a speaker more time to think or because the
speaker cannot shake the habit of using the word. Like should
describe something of the same form, appearance, kind, character, or amount.
But, very often, it is used involuntarily in conversation, just like ummm.
Obviously [ob-vee-uhs]
This word should signify an action which is
readily observable, recognized, or understood. Speakers tend to use it,
however, to emphasize their point with regards to things that aren't
necessarily obvious: "Obviously he should have thrown the ball
to first base."
What crutch
words do you rely on?