Starting a conversation in English: small talk phrases

Small talk is a short conversation about light topics such as the weather, work, travel, or the weekend with someone you don't know well. The aim is less to get information than to connect and create a relaxed atmosphere. A simple opener (“Nice weather today, isn't it?”), an open question, and a small comment on the other person's answer are enough to keep it going.

Starting a conversation

A comment about the situation: “It's busy today, isn't it?”, “This coffee is really good.” Introducing yourself: “Hi, I'm Deniz. I don't think we've met.” Something you share: “How do you know the host?”, “Is this your first time here?”

Keeping it going

Questions that can't be answered with “yes” or “no” open the conversation: “What do you do?”, “How was your weekend?”, “What brings you here?” React to the answer and add something about yourself: “Oh, really? I've never been there. What's it like?” Short phrases show you are listening: “That sounds great.”, “I see.”

Safe topics and ending politely

The weather, travel, work or school, weekend plans, food, and films are safe topics; salary, age, religion, and politics are usually not asked about in a first chat. To end: “It was nice talking to you.”, “I'd better get going, but see you later.”, “Enjoy the rest of your day.”

A short exercise

Think of three settings (a wedding, a course, a queue in a café). For each, write one opening line, two open questions, and one closing line. Then rehearse them out loud.

To keep going, see Introducing yourself in English: greetings, age, and answers to “How are you?” and Afraid to speak English? Five steps to feel less anxious.

Frequently asked questions

Do you give a long answer to “How are you?”? In small talk, a short answer and the same question back are usually enough: “Fine, thanks. And you?”

What if there is a silence? Ask a new question about the setting, or go back to something the other person said: “You mentioned you like hiking. Where do you usually go?”