The 2 words are "Yes, and."

Here are 3 reasons why they are valuable for conversers:

a) adding details to what the other person said,

b) asking a question about what they said, such as "Yes, and what else?" or "Yes, and tell me more . . ."

c) gently letting them know you have a different understanding or viewpoint. For example, if you disagree, you can avoid the "but" by saying instead, "Yes, and I have a somewhat different point of view."

The obvious problem with a "Yes, but" response is that the "but" immediately negates what the other person just said.

So, when you "get your but out of the way," you'll keep the conversation flowing along.

Loren Ekroth ©2012, all rights reserved

Loren Ekroth, Ph.D. is a specialist in human communication and a national expert on conversation for business and social life.