idle chat
Casual verbal exchange
Idle chat is casual, aimless conversation—talk for its own sake rather than to accomplish anything.
The idle emphasizes that nothing productive is expected: We made idle chat while waiting for the meeting to start.
Distinguished from small talk mainly by the suggestion that the conversation could go on indefinitely without purpose.
- gossipInformal talk spreading rumors
- banterPlayful, teasing exchange
- small talkPolite trivial conversation
- chitchatInformal light conversation
- prattleTrivial, prolonged speech
gabbing · shooting the breeze · coffee klatch · jawing · nattering · blather · talk shop · schmooze · empty words · water cooler · break room · coffee break · rambling · yapping · buzzing · whispers · rumors · loose lips
- chitchatsmall talk, banter, chitchat, pleasantries, catching up
- trivialitiestrivia, trifles, minutiae, small potatoes, peanuts
idle chatworking session
Dedicated time for tasks
policy discussion · strategic planning · job interview · heated debate · intellectual discourse
idle chatheart-to-heart
Sincere personal discussion
theological debate · confrontation · heated argument · confession · declaration of love
idle chatformal address
Respectful way of speaking
prepared remarks · keynote speech · parliamentary debate · court testimony · diplomatic talks
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