Small talk is the art of having light, casual conversations about everyday topics. It's what people use to connect, fill silence, and be polite. In English, small talk often includes talking about the weather, asking simple questions, and sharing a little about your day.
Here are some common topics and phrases used in English small talk.
Small Talk Topics
Small talk can be about almost anything, but here are some of the most common subject areas in English:
- Weather
- Hobbies and Free Time
- Work and School
- Daily Life and Routine
Markers & Strategies
English speakers use certain fixed expressions and questions to keep small talk going. Here are some examples:
- Asking About Others: “How about you?” “What about you?”
- Showing Interest: “Really?” “That sounds nice.”
- Agreeing: “Me too.” “I know.”
- Changing the Subject: “By the way...” “Oh, before I forget...”
Which phrase would you use to politely change the topic in a conversation?
By the way...
“By the way...” is a common phrase used to introduce a new topic or return to an earlier one.
Which phrase shows that you are interested in what someone just said?
Really?
“Really?” is used to express interest and encourage the other person to continue talking.
Tips for Small Talk
- Keep It Simple: Use easy sentences and common words.
- Be Polite: Use “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.”
- Listen More: Show interest by nodding and asking follow-up questions.
- Don’t Worry: Small talk is just a way to be friendly, not a test.
Let’s look at some example conversations to see how small talk works in real life.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
