> in speech however it can serve as a focusing point to indicate the next part is important
it's... exact opposite?
the main (attempted) use for ummms is to keep continuation of speech despite the pause. And the main complaint is exactly that it ruins the focus and doesn't give respite
It can be a focusing point when someone wants to highlight the deliberate use of euphemism, removing those would be, um, unwise.
Although that is probably the less common use.
I think you’re both right. But you’re right regarding writing and your parent comment is right regarding speech.