Making small talk

"Small talk" means conversation about things that aren't really very important, especially with people we don't meet very often.

You must be Susan's husband.
How's your wife / friend?
Nice weather, isn't it?
What's new?
I haven't seen you for ages.
What have you been up to?
Are you still working for the same firm?
Have you heard from Jenny recently?
What a coincidence!
Fancy meeting you here!

Explanations

• Phrase 1 is used to introduce yourself to someone, when you think you know who the person is.
• Phrase 2 is used to ask the person you are talking to for information about someone close to them.
• 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.
• Phrases 4 and 6 are general enquiries, asking for news about a person.
• Phrases 7 and 8 are more specific than 4 and 6, but are still enquiries for information.
• Phrase 5 has a similar meaning to 4 and 6, but is expressed as a statement rather than a question.
• Phrases 9 and 10 are used to express surprise when you meet someone you weren't expecting to meet.