The “Tip of the Tongue” Phenomenon

This is something we all experience at times. You are talking to a friend and all of a sudden you get stuck on a word. You know that you’ve used this word many times before, but the more you try and think of it, the more frustrated you get! That is until eventually, someone thinks of the word for you…or it just clicks!

This strange occurrence is known as the “Tip of the Tongue” phenomenon. Although this experience is quite normal, it occurs more often to those with expressive language difficulties, such as word-finding problems. Unfortunately, there is no clear evidence as to why this situation occurs; however, we do know that there are strategies that we can use when you get stuck. One of the most beneficial techniques to use when you are experiencing the “Tip of the Tongue” phenomenon is to describe the word that you are trying to say!

Try thinking of this list next time you are stuck on a word or encourage your clients, children or students to use these strategies if they are having word-finding difficulties:

  1. What does it look like? (e.g., It is huge, gray and has big ears)
  2. What does it sound like? (e.g., It is very very quiet and goes “squeak squeak”)
  3. Where is it used? (e.g,., You use it to reach something that is up really high)
  4. What does it smell like? (e.g, It smells like fresh lavender)
  5. What does it do? (e.g., It helps protect my skin from getting sun-burnt)
  6. What sound does it start with? (e.g., It starts with “s”)
  7. What size is it? (e.g., It’s really really tiny)
  8. Who uses it? (e.g., My teacher uses it to write on the blackboard)
  9. When do you use it? (e.g., I use it when I go to school)
  10. What does it feel like? (e.g., It feels soft and fluffy)
  11. What shape is it? (e.g., It looks like a circle)
  12. What is it made of? (e.g., It is made of sand)

Learn More About Speech and Language Strategies

There are many strategies available if you are experiencing word-finding difficulties. If you are interested in learning more about tips and strategies for speech, language or literacy difficulties, please call us today at 289-238-8598.. Our team would be delighted to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to hearing from you.