Have read that this increased in popularity starting with US president Obama, but what significance does starting a response with a superfluous 'Look, ...' before giving an answer have?
eg, an individual asked for an opinion, starts response with 'Look ...' before giving an answer.
Some explanations I've heard put forward include giving the speaker another second to think about a response and/or a display of command/dominance/expertise by the 'expert' with respect to the audience. Any basis to either of these or some other rationale entirely?