Mastering Small Talk: Common Conversational Starters in Spanish

Talking about casual topics is an essential skill in any language. However, it doesn’t always come naturally. One way to become more fluent is to know beforehand which small talk phrases you can use in different situations. With you in mind, we decided to research the most commonly used phrases by Spanish speakers. We've listed them so you can learn how to start conversations in Spanish naturally and effectively. Keep reading and become an expert in the art of small talk!

What is Small Talk?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, small talk is “light or trivial conversation; chit-chat.” These chats usually focus on simple, everyday topics and are great for breaking the ice and establishing an initial connection with someone. Understanding and practicing small talk is essential for improving fluency and confidence in daily situations.

Where or When Do You Use It?

Small talk is used in informal social situations like meetings, events, parties, or even in the supermarket line. It’s ideal for starting conversations in Spanish, as it helps create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. You can also use it at work, on a trip, at university, or even on a date. These conversations can happen anywhere you want to start a dialogue or ease tension in the moment. Here are some examples of situations where you can use small talk phrases:

• During a work break
• Waiting for a conference or event to start
• On a plane, next to a fellow passenger
• In the library while looking for books
• In a café or restaurant before ordering
• At a social event
• In the produce section of the supermarket
• Joining a group conversation, etc.

20 Common Small Talk Phrases

From practical tips to a list of phrases, WorldsAcross gives you everything you need to perfect your Spanish conversations. We’ve even separated the phrases so you know what to say in each situation:

At a party or social event:

• ¿Qué te trae por aquí? (What brings you here?)
• ¿Conoces a muchas personas aquí? (Do you know many people here?)

At work or a conference:

• ¿Qué te parece el evento hasta ahora? (How do you like the event so far?)
• ¿Cómo llegaste a trabajar en [nombre de la empresa]? (How did you start working at [company name]?)

On a trip or vacation:

• ¿Has estado alguna vez en [lugar]? (Have you ever been to [place]?)
• ¿Te gusta viajar? (Do you like to travel?)

When meeting someone new:

• ¿De dónde eres? (Where are you from?)
• ¿Tienes algún hobby? (Do you have any hobbies?)

At a gathering with friends:

• ¿Qué planes tienes para el fin de semana? (What plans do you have for the weekend?)
• ¿Qué música te gusta escuchar? (What kind of music do you like to listen to?)

In a casual work conversation:

• ¿Practicas algún deporte? (Do you play any sports?)
• ¿Tienes mascotas? (Do you have any pets?)

On a date:

• ¿Cuál es tu comida favorita? (What’s your favorite food?)
• ¿Cuál es tu libro favorito? (What’s your favorite book?)

In an academic setting:

• ¿Qué estudias o en qué te especializas? (What do you study or specialize in?)
• ¿Qué haces en tu tiempo libre? (What do you do in your free time?)

In a conversation about common interests:

• ¿Te gusta cocinar? (Do you like to cook?)
• ¿Has visto alguna buena película últimamente? (Have you seen any good movies lately?)

When connecting with someone you know:

• ¿Cómo conociste a [persona en común]? (How did you meet [common person]?)
• ¿Qué opinas del clima de hoy? (What do you think about today’s weather?)

Using these small talk phrases will not only help you start conversations in Spanish, but will also allow you to practice and improve your fluency.

You’ll never be at a loss for words again!

By applying and mastering what you've learned here, many doors will open for you socially and professionally. Practice these small talk phrases and soon you’ll feel more comfortable starting conversations in Spanish. Remember, the key is to be natural and listen actively to the other person. Keep improving your Spanish and enjoy every interaction! Go ahead, the words are on your side!