Small Talk (Informal)

We know by now how to greet people and how to introduce yourself and others in informal relaxed situations. But what do people usually say after the initial greetings? How do they keep the conversation going?

Let's have a look at  some useful topics and  handy expressions that you might use in a friendly informal situation after you said hello.

1) Say how long it's been since you last saw the person.

- I haven't seen you for ages!

- It's been a long time!

- I can't believe it's been so long!

2) Ask what the person is doing or has been doing.

- What are you up to?

- What've you been up to?

- What are you doing around here?

Possible answers:

- Oh, this and that.

-  Just the usual!

- Just popping into the shop.

3) Comment on your surroundings.

- This house is gorgeous!

- I really like this pub!

- It's a lovely hotel, isn't it?

4) Ask about the journey to meet you.

- Did you get here by car?

- How was the traffic?

- How was the journey?

5) Talk about the weather.

- It's a lovely day today, isn't it?

- What awful weather we are having!

- Isn't all this sunshine great?

- It's turned very cold suddenly, hasn't it?

6) Say something nice about the person's appearance.

- Your hair looks great!

- I love your dress!