Want To Know What Is A Small Talk And What Is Not? Take This Quiz!

Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team
The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Gesine
G
Gesine
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 9 | Total Attempts: 44,783
Questions: 10 | Attempts: 3,971

SettingsSettingsSettings
Want To Know What Is A Small Talk And What Is Not? Take This Quiz! - Quiz

Small talk is an informal type of discourse that does not cover any functional topics of conversation or any transactions that need to be addressed. In essence, it is polite conversation about unimportant things.
Want to know what is a small talk and what is not? Take this quiz!


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    What is small talk?

    • A.

      Conversations about tiny objects like pencils and phones

    • B.

      Light conversation about serious topics

    • C.

      Light conversation, usually about non-work topics

    • D.

      A means of opening communication between colleagues

    Correct Answer(s)
    C. Light conversation, usually about non-work topics
    D. A means of opening communication between colleagues
    Explanation
    Small talk refers to light and casual conversations that are typically about non-work topics. It serves as a means of opening communication between colleagues and helps to establish rapport and build relationships. By engaging in small talk, individuals can create a friendly and comfortable atmosphere, allowing for more meaningful conversations to take place later on.

    Rate this question:

  • 2. 

    Should you pay attention to your conversation partner's answers when engaging in small talk?

    • A.

      Yes, so that you can tailor your responses and mirror their communication style

    • B.

      No, it is only small talk

    • C.

      Yes, it helps to build rapport

    • D.

      Sometimes, but only when the topic interests you

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Yes, so that you can tailor your responses and mirror their communication style
    C. Yes, it helps to build rapport
    Explanation
    When engaging in small talk, it is important to pay attention to your conversation partner's answers. By doing so, you can tailor your responses and mirror their communication style, which helps to build rapport. This shows that you are actively listening and interested in the conversation, making the interaction more enjoyable for both parties.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    The Irish like to talk about their dismal weather. True or false?

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The Irish are known for their tendency to discuss and complain about their gloomy weather. This cultural characteristic is often observed in conversations and is a common topic of discussion among the Irish people. Therefore, the statement "The Irish like to talk about their dismal weather" is true.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    When talking to an Irish colleague you have just met, you should feel free to discuss religious and political issues.

    • A.

      Yes

    • B.

      No

    Correct Answer
    B. No
    Explanation
    In Ireland, discussing religious and political issues with someone you have just met is generally considered impolite and inappropriate. These topics can be sensitive and may lead to disagreements or heated debates. It is best to establish a rapport and get to know the person better before broaching such subjects. Therefore, the correct answer is "No."

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    Is food a safe topic of conversation in most places?

    • A.

      Yes

    • B.

      No

    Correct Answer
    A. Yes
    Explanation
    Food is a safe topic of conversation in most places because it is a universal subject that everyone can relate to. Discussing food allows people to share their experiences, preferences, and cultural traditions without causing controversy or discomfort. Additionally, food is a neutral and non-controversial topic that can help break the ice and foster connections between individuals.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    Which of the following are examples of small talk topics that are best avoided ?

    • A.

      TV/Entertainment

    • B.

      Food

    • C.

      Salary

    • D.

      Recent History

    Correct Answer(s)
    C. Salary
    D. Recent History
    Explanation
    Salary and recent history are examples of small talk topics that are best avoided because they can be sensitive and personal subjects. Discussing someone's salary can be considered intrusive and may make people uncomfortable. Similarly, recent history can include topics such as politics or controversial events, which can lead to disagreements or tense conversations. It is generally best to stick to more neutral and light-hearted topics like TV/entertainment and food when engaging in small talk.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    Choose the best phrases to finish this sentence. Small talk is good because...

    • A.

      It gives speakers a chance to get to know each other informally and find common interests

    • B.

      It enables speakers to practice their understanding of each other's accents

    • C.

      It distracts others while you find your presentation notes

    • D.

      It enables you to create an informal bond with your conversation partner

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. It gives speakers a chance to get to know each other informally and find common interests
    B. It enables speakers to practice their understanding of each other's accents
    D. It enables you to create an informal bond with your conversation partner
    Explanation
    Small talk is good because it gives speakers a chance to get to know each other informally and find common interests. It also enables speakers to practice their understanding of each other's accents and creates an informal bond with your conversation partner.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    When engaged in small talk, which of the following should you avoid?

    • A.

      Trying to outdo everything the other person says

    • B.

      Restricting your answers to a nice, simple yes or no

    • C.

      Keeping an eye on the clock so that you know when your 3 minutes of planned conversation is up

    • D.

      Asking highly personal questions to see how much information the other person will give away

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Trying to outdo everything the other person says
    B. Restricting your answers to a nice, simple yes or no
    C. Keeping an eye on the clock so that you know when your 3 minutes of planned conversation is up
    D. Asking highly personal questions to see how much information the other person will give away
    Explanation
    When engaged in small talk, it is important to avoid trying to outdo everything the other person says. This can come across as competitive or arrogant, and may make the other person feel uncomfortable or overshadowed. Restricting your answers to a simple yes or no also hinders the flow of conversation and may make it difficult for the other person to engage. Keeping an eye on the clock can make the conversation feel rushed and impersonal, as it shows a lack of genuine interest. Asking highly personal questions can be invasive and make the other person feel uncomfortable or unwilling to share.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    Small talk can be a very useful networking tool. True or false?

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Small talk can be a very useful networking tool because it helps to establish rapport and build connections with others. Engaging in casual conversation allows individuals to find common ground, show interest in others, and create a comfortable atmosphere. By engaging in small talk, people can create a positive impression, enhance communication skills, and potentially open doors for future opportunities.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    Which of the following are good topics to talk about with someone that you don't know?

    • A.

      Sport

    • B.

      Weather

    • C.

      Politics

    • D.

      Religion

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Sport
    B. Weather
    Explanation
    Sport and weather are good topics to talk about with someone you don't know because they are generally considered safe and non-controversial subjects. These topics are often seen as light-hearted and can help to break the ice and establish a connection with the other person. Additionally, discussing sport and weather can be a way to find common interests and engage in a friendly conversation. On the other hand, politics and religion are often sensitive topics that can easily lead to disagreements or discomfort, especially when discussing them with someone you don't know well.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Aug 28, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Jun 12, 2013
    Quiz Created by
    Gesine
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.