The language common in speaking that includes words like about, kind of, sort of, used to soften statements is known as what?

• A. Vague language
• B. Discourse marker
• C. Ellipsis
• D. Linker

Answer: (A)

Vague language is used in speech to soften statements and avoid sounding too definite. Words like about, kind of, and sort of express approximation and uncertainty, making what’s said less assertive. This helps speakers come across as polite, cautious, or flexible in interpretation. Discourse markers manage the flow of conversation but aren’t specifically about softening claims; ellipsis is the omission of words, and linkers connect ideas. So this pattern is best described as vague language.