hmm
Expresses that someone is thinking, hesitating, or does not know the answer yet.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, lass mich kurz überlegen, wie wir das lösen könnten.
Hmm, let me think for a moment about how we could solve this.
hmm
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Meanings
hmm
Expresses doubt or reservations about something.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, ob diese dünne Schnur das Gewicht wirklich hält?
Hmm, will this thin cord really hold the weight?
hmm
Especially when eating or thinking about food, expresses enjoyment and a sense of well-being.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, dieser Kuchen schmeckt köstlich!
Hmm, this cake tastes delicious!
Usage tips
Thinking pause
'Hmm' often appears at the beginning of a sentence and signals a brief thinking pause. It is frequently followed by a thought, a question, or a cautious answer.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, ich brauche noch einen Moment, um darüber nachzudenken.
Hmm, I need another moment to think about it.
Spelling
In written dialogue, 'hmm' is usually separated from the following sentence by a comma. Multiple 'm's can indicate the length of the pause or the intensity of the feeling.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, das klingt interessant, aber ich bin noch nicht ganz überzeugt.
Hmm, that sounds interesting, but I'm not completely convinced yet.
Context clue
Doubt or reservations can often be recognized by a question that follows, cautious wording, or an objection. The voice often sounds drawn out or hesitant.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, bist du sicher, dass dieser Plan wirklich funktioniert?
Hmm, are you sure this plan will really work?
Expression of enjoyment
When expressing enjoyment, 'hmm' often appears directly before a positive statement about taste, smell, or a pleasant feeling.
EXAMPLE
Hmm, diese warme Suppe tut nach dem langen Spaziergang gut.
Hmm, this warm soup feels good after the long walk.
In real life
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