What are hedges typically used for in spoken language?

Hedges are typically used in spoken language to soften or weaken the impact of an utterance. This linguistic feature allows speakers to express uncertainty or politeness, making statements less assertive or absolute. For example, using phrases like "I think," "maybe," or "perhaps" introduces a level of ambiguity or caution to the statement, which can create a more tentative tone. This can be particularly useful in conversations where politeness is important, or when a speaker wants to avoid coming across as overly forceful or confrontational. The use of hedges helps facilitate smoother interactions by considering the feelings and responses of the listeners.