Why is the word "like" added

[QuizmasterG]

Why is the word "like" added so many times during conversations (especially by younger people). Is no-one corrected about poor communications anymore or has it gone down the pan with manners, politeness and consideration for others?

[sir.prize]

"Basically", I agree. "Know What I Mean". "Man". "Doh"

[joko]

its just a 'filler' word - like saying 'err' or 'ummm', and also perhaps just adding 'so...' and then saying nothing.

my old headtecher had a habit of finishing his sentences with a muttered "like that", no idea why - but this was in the mid seventies!!

[mrs_overall]

As well as 'like', it drives me insane when kids use the words 'right' or 'whatever' every other word! My personal bugbear is when I say to someone "Would you like a drink/sweet//book I've finished with/etc etc" and I receive the answer "Go on then." How rude is that?
I'm going to lie down in a darkened room now.

[dot.hawkes]

I grew up hearing this word from scousers who had moved out of Liverpool, but St Helens people seem to use it alot too. but they add ' ye know' to it. lol I don't think it is a case of a lack of vocabulary, but how many times do you reply, 'yeah i know what you mean' lol.

[Bellringer]

It gets on my nerves as well. But; in Northern Ireland the expression "so it is" or variations are added. In Glasgow it is 'by the way'. I reckon the same sort of thing has happed for ages now but 'like' seems to be the modern additive. Don't you know!

[JK2]

Don't get me started!

[Thicko2006]

Not just younger people - my dear departed Grandma, who died thirty years or so ago often finished a statement with "you know, like and that."

[willowman]

The other word that gets right up my nose is "Yes" at the start of an answer, which doesn't need a yes.
When asked "How are you" MrsW will reply "Yes, I'm fine, thank you" Gggggrrrrrrr.
Why say yes?

[flip-flop]

or Da instead of The.

Don't skinny spotty white boys realise they sound utterly ridiculous trying to sound black?

[joko]

the toffs also have them , "what", "what ho",and "don't you know", so its not just a 'street' thing

[lafrancaise]

It's just a habit you get into, once you change your environment etc you change your expressions. When I here any kids saying 'right?' I just say 'left' and they then can't concentrate... one of the wonders of communication I think.

[lafrancaise]

sorry, i should have written 'hear'

[Bellringer]

Just to add to annoying speech. Why have people started pronouncing the last "G" in a word as "K"?
I know in Gaelic the "G" at the end of a word is pronounced as a soft "K" but the English are making it a hard "K" and I am sure it is not from the Gaelic