Looking for synonyms for small talk? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say small talk.
- Chitchat
- Casual conversation
- Light conversation
- Banter
- Chat
- Pleasantries
- Gossip
- Idle talk
- Small chat
- Chatter
- Tête-à-tête
- Small discourse
- Informal discussion
- Exchange of words
- Trivial talk
Want to learn how to say small talk professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Chitchat
When to use: Suitable for informal, light conversation often used to break the ice in social or professional settings.
Example: “Before the meeting started, there was some chitchat among colleagues about their weekend plans.”
2. Casual Conversation
When to use: Ideal for relaxed, informal dialogue that doesn’t focus on any specific topic.
Example: “During the coffee break, we engaged in casual conversation about various hobbies.”
3. Light Conversation
When to use: Appropriate for a non-serious, easy discussion, typically used in social networking events.
Example: “At the conference, participants had light conversations during the networking session.”
4. Banter
When to use: Suitable for playful, teasing, and humorous exchanges often used to create a friendly atmosphere.
Example: “The team’s banter during lunch helped to foster a positive work environment.”
5. Chat
When to use: Used for any informal talk or discussion, often spontaneous.
Example: “We had a quick chat in the hallway about the upcoming project deadlines.”
6. Pleasantries
When to use: Ideal for polite conversation about non-controversial topics, often used at the beginning of a professional interaction.
Example: “The interview began with an exchange of pleasantries before moving on to more substantial topics.”
7. Gossip
When to use: Suitable for casual conversation about other people’s private lives, which can be sensitive in a professional context.
Example: “During the team outing, there was some gossip about the changes in management.”
8. Idle Talk
When to use: Appropriate for conversations that are not focused or purpose-driven, typically used to pass time.
Example: “There was a bit of idle talk among the staff waiting for the meeting to begin.”
9. Small Chat
When to use: Similar to small talk, used for brief and informal conversations.
Example: “We made small chat while waiting for the seminar to start.”
10. Chatter
When to use: Suitable for continuous and informal talking or discussions, especially in a group setting.
Example: “There was a lively chatter in the workspace about the new office design.”
11. Tête-à-tête
When to use: Ideal for a private conversation between two people.
Example: “The manager had a brief tête-à-tête with each team member to understand their concerns.”
12. Small Discourse
When to use: Used for a short, informal discussion on general topics.
Example: “After the formal part of the event, there was a period of small discourse among attendees.”
13. Informal Discussion
When to use: Appropriate for a discussion that is relaxed and not bound by formal rules or topics.
Example: “The informal discussion after the workshop allowed participants to share their experiences and insights.”
14. Exchange of Words
When to use: Suitable for brief conversations, typically informal in nature.
Example: “There was a friendly exchange of words between competitors at the business conference.”
15. Trivial Talk
When to use: Ideal for conversations about matters of little importance, often used to fill silence.
Example: “To avoid an awkward silence, they engaged in trivial talk while waiting for the presentation to begin.”
