🌤️ German phrase guide
How to make small talk in German
Small talk is where real fluency shows: no script, no menu, just a friendly chat. These phrases (in the casual "you" you'd use with a friendly neighbour) get you through the weather, the weekend and a warm goodbye.
Practice this conversation out loud, free →Key German phrases
| German | English | Listen |
|---|---|---|
| Wie geht's? | How's it going? | |
| Schönes Wetter heute, oder? | Nice weather today, isn't it? | |
| Ist das heiß / kalt heute! | It's so hot / so cold! | |
| Hast du was vor am Wochenende? | Any plans for the weekend? | |
| Nicht viel, einfach entspannen. | Not much, just relaxing. | |
| Wie war dein Wochenende? | How was your weekend? | |
| Wie lange wohnst du schon hier? | How long have you lived here? | |
| Was machst du beruflich? | What do you do for work? | |
| Schön, mit dir zu plaudern! | Nice talking to you! | |
| Bis bald! | See you around! |
Example conversation
Neighbour
Hallo! Wie geht's?
Hi! How's it going?
You
Gut, danke! Schönes Wetter heute, oder?
Good, thanks! Nice weather today, isn't it?
Neighbour
Endlich! Hast du was vor am Wochenende?
Finally! Any plans for the weekend?
You
Ich fahre mit Freunden an den Strand. Und du?
I'm going to the beach with some friends. And you?
Neighbour
Nichts Besonderes, einfach zu Hause entspannen.
Nothing special, just relaxing at home.
You
Klingt gut! Bis bald!
Sounds good! See you around!
Good to know
💡 These phrases use the friendly "du". With older neighbours or in formal settings, use "Sie": "Wie geht es Ihnen?" The weather is a safe topic everywhere.
Reading phrases isn't the same as saying them.
Have this conversation with an AI partner who plays the other person, answers back, gives you a tip when something sounds off, and lets you speak your replies out loud. Free, no signup needed.
Practice "Small talk" in German →More German situations
☕ How to order coffee🍽️ How to order at a restaurant🧭 How to ask for directions🏨 How to check into a hotel🙋 How to introduce yourself🩺 How to make a doctor's appointment🚆 How to buy a train ticket👕 How to shop for clothes📞 How to book a table💊 How to ask for help at a pharmacy