A2English
Making Small Talk
Use these phrases to make light conversation with co-workers, neighbors, and new friends.
Key Phrases
Voice
Greeting · 3 ways to say it
Hey, how's it going?
casualUse this with friends and close co-workers.
Hello, how are you?
neutralA safe greeting for most situations.
Good morning. How are you today?
politeMore formal, good for speaking with managers or older neighbors.
Asking about the weekend · 3 ways to say it
How was your weekend?
casualA very common question on Mondays.
Did you do anything fun on the weekend?
neutralUS: Asking about past weekend activities.
Did you do anything fun at the weekend?
neutralUK: Asking about past weekend activities.
Answering about the weekend · 2 ways to say it
It was good. I just relaxed.
casualI had a great weekend, thank you.
politeAsking about work · 2 ways to say it
How is work?
casualAre you busy at work today?
neutralEnding the conversation · 2 ways to say it
See you later.
casualOnly use this when you will actually see the person again.
Have a good day.
neutralPractice Dialogue
Regular Customer
Morning! How are you today?
Barista
I'm good, thanks. How was your weekend?
Regular Customer
Great, thanks. I just relaxed at home.
Barista
Oh, nice. Are you busy at work today?
Regular Customer
Yeah, so many meetings.
Barista
Well, here is your coffee. Good luck today!
Regular Customer
Thanks! I should go now.
Barista
Have a good day.