The Quick Guide to Making Small Talk in French

Small talk is the polite (sometimes dreadfully awkward) conversation usually shared between people who are strangers or mere acquaintances. Though it may sound simple enough, it’s not as easy to pull off as one would think, with some people claiming that there is a special “art” to it. But whether you’re fond of it or not, small talk is a fact of life—just like taxes or public transport that go on strike. When you’re in public places or in a social situation such as parties or a wedding reception, small talk is (a) necessary (evil). Small talk also comes handy in breaking the ice during important life events like before your big job interview or that important networking event you need to join…or when the person whom you’re convinced is *the* love of your life is standing beside you in the buffet area. But wait—what if you’re in France or