In this study, the use and function of `Ne` in the conversation between twenties university students friends were investigated. The functions of `Ne` in natural conversations were classified into `faciliative`, `attention-getting`, `softening`, `confirming`, `verbal-filler` and `re-confirming`. The results are summarized as follows. First, it can be seen that `Ne` is used in a larger number of utterances and is used at a higher rate in female university students` conversations than in male university students` conversations. In addition, it was confirmed that in both male university students` conversations and female university students` conversations, there is a common feature that `Ne` functions mainly as `faciliative` and `attention-getting`. However, there is a slight difference in the usage of function of `Ne` between male and female. Although the distinction of use of language between males and females is becoming weaker in modern society, the results of this study suggest that females still use `Ne` a little more than males.