Making small talk - Intermediate

\Small talk\ means conversation about things that aren't really very important, especially with people we don't meet very often. You might use them at a party.

10 expressions to Use In Speaking And Writing: 
  1. You must be Susan's husband.
  2. How's your wife / friend?
  3. Nice weather, isn't it?
  4. What's new?
  5. I haven't seen you for ages.
  6. What have you been up to?
  7. Are you still working for the same firm?
  8. Have you heard from Jenny recently?
  9. What a coincidence!
  10. Fancy meeting you here!
How To Use These Phrases In Your English: 
  1. Phrase 1 is used to introduce yourself to someone, when you think you know who the person is.
  2. Phrase 2 is used to ask the person you are talking to for information about someone close to them.
  3. Phrase 3 is used when you can't think of anything else to talk about. If the weather is bad, you could say 'Rotten weather, isn't it?' instead.
  4. Phrases 4 and 6 are general enquiries, asking for news about a person.
  5. Phrases 7 and 8 are more specific than 4 and 6, but are still enquiries for information.
  6. Phrase 5 has a similar meaning to 4 and 6, but is expressed as a statement rather than a question.
  7. Phrases 9 and 10 are used to express surprise when you meet someone you weren't expecting to meet.
Intermediate

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