logo
episode-header-image
Jan 2019
2m 41s

Small talk

BBC Radio
About this episode

Here's a phrase that describes making informal conversation about not much.

Up next
Nov 3
The English We Speak: Here for it
Here for what exactly? Learn how to show your support for something with this expressionGet a free transcript for this episode: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/the-english-we-speak_2026/ep-261102Explore more programmes for your level: https://www.bbc.co.uk/ ... Show More
2m 36s
Oct 27
The English We Speak: In the same breath
If you express two ideas using 'in the same breath', you contrast them both and add weight to one. It's used to introduce a contradiction. Though the ideas are different, both could be true, but the latter idea, which comes after 'in the same breath', usually carries more weight. ... Show More
2m 31s
Oct 20
The English We Speak: Leave to one's own devices
Sometimes people leave you to do something on your own because they trust you. Sometimes people just don't want to help you. In both of these situations we can say that you are left to your own devices. Learn how to use this expression with Feifei and Phil.Get a free transcript f ... Show More
2m 34s
Recommended Episodes
Nov 2018
Good Habits, Pace
A casual chat.  
49m 52s
Oct 2024
Raise Your Standards
just a quick conversation 
11m 47s
Jan 2021
Aquí esta mi act
No hay mucho que decir 
5m 17s
Aug 2018
Chat | Streisand Effect, Q, Sugar
New idiom and casual chat! 
55m 20s
Feb 2023
Simple English Conversation
Simple English Conversation 
5m 30s
Aug 2017
3: Networking – Small Talk 1 (Fiction)
tail spinning
23m 55s
Jul 2025
Small Talk with Neighbors or Strangers in English
<p>In today’s episode of <i>5-Minute English Talk</i>, we’re diving into something we all do — <strong>small talk</strong>.</p><p>Whether you’re in the elevator, walking your dog, or waiting in line at the coffee shop — a little friendly conversation can go a long way. You’ll lea ... Show More
3m 33s
Aug 2025
861 - How to Make Small Talk in English
Today, I want to talk about something that might seem small, but it actually plays a big role in everyday English — and that’s small talk. Small talk is one of those things that isn’t really taught in textbooks… but it’s something people do all the time in English-speaking countr ... Show More
10m 28s
Apr 2021
Give a fuck
Random talk 
19m 32s