‘Aizuchi’ is a Japanese term used for a certain type of words in conversations, and forms an integral part of your conversation. It is many times translated as ‘words of encouragement’, and functions to carry forward the conversation smoothly. It involves head nodding and small phrases like “yes”, “really?”, “is that so?”. You will observe that these words are used consistently by the Japanese people while you’re talking to them. Indians may sometimes feel like being interrupted and even make one think that the other person is rude, but it’s just the opposite in Japan. Aizuchi is used to indicate something like “I’m listening to you, so please continue”. If you use it well, it will put the person you’re speaking to at ease and assure them that you’re giving them your attention.