Words You Must Avoid in Small Talk 👇

Beginner Level | July 22, 2025

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

Have you ever started a conversation and then—boom—it stopped?
You said something, and the other person didn’t have anything to say back.

If that sounds familiar, you might be using “conversation killers” without realizing it. These are words and phrases that stop the conversation instead of helping it grow. Today, let’s learn what words to avoid in small talk and what you can say instead.

What Are Words to Avoid in Small Talk?

Some words are too short, too boring, or too final. They don’t help the other person continue talking. For example:

“Fine.”
“Nothing much.”
“Busy.”

When someone asks, “How are you?” and you say, “Fine,” the conversation often ends there. These words don’t give the listener anything to respond to.

Why Small Talk Matters

Small talk isn’t just “extra.” It’s where connection starts. Whether it’s a coworker, a new client, or someone at a networking event, these little conversations can build trust and lead to new opportunities. But only if you use the right words.

Words to Avoid in Small Talk and What to Say Instead

Let’s look at three common phrases that kill conversations—and what you can say instead:

“I’m fine.”

Try: “I’m feeling energized—I just finished a fun project.”

“Not much.”

Try: “I just started a new book on leadership. It’s actually really interesting.”

“Busy.”

Try: “Things are full right now—we’re preparing for our next product launch.”

Notice the pattern? Add a short reason. Give something real. That’s what keeps the conversation going.

A Simple Formula to Try

Here’s a formula that works well:

[Honest Adjective or Activity] + [Quick Reason or Detail]

Examples:

“I’m a bit tired—we had a late meeting yesterday.”
“I’m feeling curious—today’s project is something new for me.”

Practice These Upgrades

Take the following “conversation killer” words and upgrade them:

Fine → “I’m feeling hopeful—we had a good client call today.”
Nothing → “I watched a short video on AI and creativity. Really made me think.”
Busy → “Things are packed right now, but I’m excited about next week’s event.”

Practice these aloud until they feel natural.

Remember:

Small talk is a skill.
Avoid short, empty answers.
Add one detail to invite connection.
Practice makes it easier every time.

Vocabulary List

Awkward (adjective) — Uncomfortable or strange.
Example: It felt awkward when no one replied to my question.
Kill (verb, informal) — To stop something completely.
Example: That answer killed the conversation.
Trust (noun) — A belief that someone is reliable.
Example: Small talk helps build trust.
Opportunities (noun) — Chances to do something positive or helpful.
Example: Good small talk can lead to new opportunities.
Real (adjective) — Honest, not fake.
Example: People connect better when you give a real answer.
Adjective (noun) — A word that describes a noun.
Example: “Tired” and “curious” are adjectives.
Formula (noun) — A simple rule to follow.
Example: Use the formula: adjective + reason.
Detail (noun) — A small part of something that gives more information.
Example: Add a detail to help the listener respond.
Connection (noun) — A bond or shared feeling with someone.
Example: A good answer can create a connection.
Packed (adjective, informal) — Very full or busy.
Example: My schedule is packed this week.

5 Questions About the Article

What is a “conversation killer”?
Why does saying “I’m fine” hurt small talk?
What is the simple formula mentioned in the article?
Why is it better to give a real answer with a detail?
How can practicing help with small talk?

5 Open-Ended Questions on the Topic

How do you usually answer when someone asks, “How are you?”
Have you ever felt awkward during small talk? What happened?
What new phrases could you try using next time?
Why do you think small talk is difficult for some professionals?
How can better small talk help you at work?

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