Small Talk

What is small talk?
Small talk is more of a casual form of conversation that allows people to "breaks the ice" or can be used if there is an awkward silence between 2 people or more people.
Small talk is usually not important.

Examples of small talk for weather, weekend, family, sports, films, people

Using the weather for small talk
Kind of chilly this morning, isn’t it?
What a beautiful morning.
A bit windy, but beautiful.
It’s never that hot at this time of the year.
It’s been raining for weeks.
Is this never going to end?

Using weekend for small talk (for acquaintances and colleagues)
How did you spend the weekend?
Did you do anything special?
How was your weekend?

Using family for small talk (for acquaintances and colleagues)
Robert: How’s Jane doing? I haven’t seen her for ages.
Linda: Oh, she’s fine. She just got a job with the government.
Robert: That’s great news. We should get together one of these days. Sarah would love to see you both, too.
Linda: Sure. That’d be great. …
More examples
How are the kids?
Give my regards to your husband.
Why don’t you come over for dinner one of these days?

Using sports for small talk
David: Did you see the game last night?
Jason: No, I missed it. Was it a good game?

Using films for small talk (for acquaintances and colleagues)
Sarah: Have you seen the Hangover 3? We went to see it last night.
Jane: How was it?
Sarah: Jason thought it was hilarious, but I was a bit disappointed.
More examples
You should definitely go for it. You must see that!

Using people for small talk (for acquaintances and colleagues)

Have you heard? Kitty is getting married.
Don’t tell anyone, but apparently David is going to be promoted. 1

1. quoted from: http://www.easypacelearning.com/all-lessons/learning-english-level-1/1101-small-talk-english-conversation-lesson