Pronunciation: [hˈʌmɪŋ hˈɔː] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "humming haw" is actually "hemming and hawing." It is a colloquial term used to describe someone who is hesitant or indecisive when speaking. The phonetic transcription of this phrase is ˈhɛmɪŋ ən ˈhɔɪɪŋ, using the symbols of the International Phonetic Alphabet. The word "hemming" is pronounced with short "e" and "i" sounds, while "hawing" is pronounced with a short "a" sound.
"Humming haw" is an idiomatic expression often used to describe indecisiveness or hesitation in speech or action. It refers to the act of making low or soft humming or hawing sounds while hesitating or pondering over a decision or response. The term is derived from the onomatopoeic sounds "hum" and "haw" which represent unclear or uncertain thoughts or opinions.
The phrase is commonly used to convey the speaker's uncertain state of mind or lack of confidence in making a firm decision. It implies a hesitancy to commit or take a definitive stance, often accompanied by prolonged contemplation or evaluation. Someone "humming haw" may be seen to constantly shift between different viewpoints or possibilities, unable to settle on a clear conclusion.
The phrase can also be associated with a lack of assertiveness or difficulty expressing one's thoughts or opinions. It suggests a tendency to avoid giving a direct answer or making a firm commitment, instead opting for vague or noncommittal responses. "Humming haw" can sometimes be interpreted as a form of stalling or delaying tactics, as the speaker takes time to weigh the pros and cons or to gather more information before reaching a decision.
Overall, "humming haw" characterizes ambivalence, uncertainty, and a lack of decisiveness, often accompanied by the use of verbal fillers or pauses during communication.
The term "humming haw" is a colloquialism or an idiom that is derived from the sounds made by a person who is hesitating, faltering, or uncertain while speaking. "Humming" refers to the throaty or humming sound made when a person clears their throat before speaking, while "haw" is an imitation of the sound made when a person is hesitant or stalling while speaking. The combined phrase "humming haw" is essentially an onomatopoeic representation of these sounds and is used to describe someone who is struggling to express their thoughts or is unsure of what to say. However, it is important to note that "humming haw" is not a standard word in formal or standard English but rather a phrase used in informal conversations or storytelling.
