How did people start using "you know" as a filler phrase in spoken English?

Use of "you know" too many times while conversing with someone whom you don't know may be considered as not a very good mannerism. It might give the person who is speaking a false feeling that the person who is listening is agreeing with you. But in fact some persons may feel that you are forcing your opinions on them. So better to use this phrase cautiously. This is my personal opinion.

The use of "you know" as a filler phrase in spoken English likely evolved from its original function as a way to seek confirmation or express shared understanding between speakers. Over time, it became a common conversational filler. Here's a brief overview of how this may have happened:

1. **Original Function**: Initially, "you know" was used to involve the listener by indicating that the speaker assumes shared knowledge or understanding. For example, "You know, the place we visited last summer?"

2. **Filler Phrase**: As conversations evolved, speakers began using "you know" more frequently to fill pauses or give themselves time to think. This usage shifted from its original function to become a habitual part of speech.

3. **Social Influence**: Language patterns often spread through social interactions and media. As "you know" became common in casual conversation, it was picked up and used more widely, solidifying its role as a filler phrase.

4. **Speech Rhythm**: Fillers like "you know" help maintain the rhythm of speech and can make conversations feel more natural and less abrupt.

In essence, the phrase transitioned from a tool for seeking confirmation to a filler that helps manage the flow of conversation and maintain engagement.

The use of "you know" as a filler phrase in spoken English likely developed from its original function of seeking listener confirmation or engagement. Over time, it became a common conversational filler, used to:

Fill Pauses: Helps speakers think about what to say next or maintain the flow of conversation.

Example: "I went to the store, you know, to buy some groceries."

Engage Listeners: Invites listeners to acknowledge or relate to what’s being said.

Example: "It was really hot yesterday, you know, like summer weather."

Show Uncertainty: Indicates that the speaker is not entirely sure about the information or wants to check if the listener understands.

Example: "It's, you know, a bit complicated."

Filler phrases like "you know" often become habitual and widespread as they help make speech more fluid and conversational.