Vocabulary to Buy Time

Front

What phrase can you use to give yourself a moment to think?

Back

''That’s a great question. Let me think about that for a moment.''

Front

How can you ask for clarification when you need more time?

Back

''Could you clarify what you mean by that?''

Front

What phrase helps you acknowledge the question while thinking?

Back

''Hmm, that’s interesting. I haven’t thought about that before...''

Front

How can you politely repeat the question to yourself?

Back

''So, if I understand correctly, you’re asking about…''

Front

What can you say if you need a few extra seconds?

Back

''I just want to make sure I give you the best example. Give me a second''

Front

How do you ask to come back to a question later?

Back

''I’d love to revisit this question in a moment if that’s okay''

Front

What phrase lets you acknowledge that you need a second to remember something?

Back

''It’s on the tip of my tongue… just a moment.”

Front

How can you signal that you are gathering your thoughts?

Back

''I have a few ideas—let me organize my thoughts.''

Front

What phrase can you use to buy time when recalling an example?

Back

''I’ve had a few experiences like that. Let me pick the best example.''

Front

How can you respond when you genuinely don’t know the answer?

Back

''I don’t have experience with that, but if I were in that situation, I would…''