During a conversation, which utterance would most likely function as back-channeling?

During a conversation, which utterance would most likely function as back-channeling?

• A. Please explain that.
• B. I disagree.
• C. Uh-huh.
• D. Let's move on.

Answer: (C)

Back-channeling signals are brief responses that show you’re listening and want the speaker to continue without taking over the conversation. They keep the flow going and confirm you’re following along. “Uh-huh” fits this role perfectly because it’s a quick, non-interruptive acknowledgement that invites the speaker to keep talking. The other options signal different functions: asking for more detail shifts the focus to clarification, declaring disagreement introduces a contrasting stance, and suggesting moving on changes the topic or ends the current point. So, the best match for back-channeling is the brief, encouraging acknowledgment.

Back-channeling signals are brief responses that show you’re listening and want the speaker to continue without taking over the conversation. They keep the flow going and confirm you’re following along. “Uh-huh” fits this role perfectly because it’s a quick, non-interruptive acknowledgement that invites the speaker to keep talking. The other options signal different functions: asking for more detail shifts the focus to clarification, declaring disagreement introduces a contrasting stance, and suggesting moving on changes the topic or ends the current point. So, the best match for back-channeling is the brief, encouraging acknowledgment.