Definition: The Cambridge dictionary defines small talk as "conversation about things which are not important, often between people who do not know each other well." Small talk involves approaching someone you don't know to chat about subjects that both parties can contribute to regardless of background, education, or experience.
Small talk is often key to developing new friendships. Two people who are not friends yet can find out more about their common interests by using small talk to begin a conversation. The more "polite" and common topics (weather, things going on around the people making conversation, basics about the people talking, news items, latest movies), lead to other topics where the two people slowly reveal details about their life, personality, and preferences.
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Also Known As: chit chat, gabbing, casual conversation, icebreakers
Examples:
"I met John at a party last week. We started making small talk and realized we both loved the Green Bay Packers."
"I'm going over to the hors d' oeuvres table to make a little small talk with that girl standing by herself."
