Why are a lot of people suddenly starting a sentence with "So". Are they copying someone on TV who does this?
The current Mrs Didcot Red does not like it either. It is probably use as extra thinking time. So there!
Similar reason why "look" is oft used at the start of a verbal reply to a question. It gives time to think, it has some feeling of authority to the answer, and its a natural short circuit as the brain initially feels an answer is coming, and doesn't tend to listen to the actual answer as intently. It also goes some way to deframing a question.
It’s when it’s used at the front end of a reply to a question that is really annoying Unfortunately it has spread like the plague and is absolutely rife on the telly.
Rather so than the Australian habit of starting a sentence with "Look" And, the bloody upward inflection at the end of the sentence too! F*ckin digger deviants
And don't get me going about "like". Some people can't utter a sentence without uttering at least once.
Almost all younger people interviewed on Radio 4 start their sentences with "So" - particularly well educated people. It just sounds really odd and slightly annoying. It suggests to me that it originated in our Universities.
It’s an annoying affectation adopted to suggest an informed state of mind but serving instead to demonstrate the opposite. Much like those who repeatedly and tediously claim to have been ‘very clear’ on whatever nonsense they are seeking to further misrepresent. Media trained goons them all.
totally agree, same with politicians when they start with "LISTEN", and when someone agrees with you by saying no, yes thats fine..room 101 please..
