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In the following video,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wHh7cDQi48

we see that the listener is responding by saying "Okay" periodically. But, I don't think, this is the standard form of expression.

What to respond with so that a narrator understands that you are following him?

1 Answers1

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The usage is just fine:

OK

used to express assent, agreement, or acceptance.

-- Oxford

By saying OK the listener is acknowledging they agree or accept what has been said, which by definition implies they understand it.

Another idiomatic expression you could use is:

I see

also, I see what you mean. I understand...

-- Farlex, Idioms.

If you do not want to interrupt the flow of the speaker you could also use non verbal communication. For example a nod of the head, or a simple smile, can be used to demonstrate that you are following along with what the speaker is saying.

Gary
  • 9,703
  • How about mm...hm... or aa...ha...? –  May 20 '17 at 15:33
  • if pause is great and looks like narrator expects a reaction, probably one would make some question along the described events. "So, what happened next?" or "I'm with you so far" to express understanding? – Swift May 20 '17 at 16:54
  • In fact, Oxford is at least a bit off about OK. I say that because if not most days then at least weekly for at least 10 or 20 years I have found myself challenging people who said OK precisely because I think Oxford ought to be correct, only to find that they simply don't understand the concept.

    OK they say, is just an expression - I quote, there - It doesn't mean I think it's alright; it's just a figure of speech…

     – Robbie Goodwin Jun 02 '17 at 21:40