B2English

Making Friends

Use these phrases when you are getting to know someone better and want to transition from small talk to building a real friendship.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking about hobbies · 2 ways to say it

What do you like to do when you're not working?

neutral

What are you into outside of work?

casual
Discovering shared interests · 2 ways to say it

It turns out we actually have quite a bit in common.

neutral

Use when summarizing a good conversation

No way, you're into that too? I thought I was the only one.

casual
Asking about weekend plans · 2 ways to say it

What are you up to over the weekend?

casual

US

What are you up to at the weekend?

casual

UK

Expanding on an interest · 2 ways to say it

I've always been interested in that, but I've never really known where to start.

neutral

That sounds fascinating. How did you first get involved in it?

polite

Good for showing genuine curiosity

Wrapping up the conversation · 2 ways to say it

Anyway, I should probably let you go, but it was great chatting with you.

casual

The 'anyway' signals that you are about to leave

I need to head out in a minute, but I've really enjoyed our conversation.

neutral
Suggesting future plans · 2 ways to say it

We should definitely grab a coffee or something sometime.

casual

Keeps the invitation low-pressure

Would you be interested in getting together for a drink later this week?

neutral
Exchanging contact details · 3 ways to say it

Let me grab your cell number so we can figure out a time.

casual

US

Let me grab your mobile number so we can figure out a time.

casual

UK

Are you on any social media? We could connect on there.

neutral

A slightly less personal alternative to a phone number

Confirming future plans

Awesome, I'll shoot you a text closer to the weekend.

casual

Practice Dialogue

Host's Friend
So, what are you into outside of work? Sarah mentioned you do some kind of outdoor sports or something.
New Acquaintance
Yeah, mostly rock climbing, actually. I try to head up to the mountains over the weekend whenever I can.
Host's Friend
No way, you're into that too? I used to climb quite a bit, but I've been looking for someone to go with.
New Acquaintance
Oh, really? Well, we should definitely grab a coffee or something sometime and try to plan a trip.
Host's Friend
I'd love that. Let me grab your cell number so we can figure out a time.
New Acquaintance
Sure, I'll just put it in your phone. I'll shoot you a text closer to the weekend so you have my info.
Host's Friend
Awesome. Anyway, I should probably let you get back to your friends, but it was great chatting with you.
New Acquaintance
You too! We'll definitely be in touch.

More Greetings & Socializing (B2)

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