Small talk, in Italy, is a social rite: a chance meeting can easily continue on with small talk. It is important not to have moments of silence because they are considered rude and inconsiderate. At the same time, however, a conversation can abruptly end saying something out of place. Sometimes it is enough to give a positive impression or show interest without expressing deep thoughts. A good strategy for beginning a conversation is to make a comment on something that is happening nearby, for example: [che traffico in questa città] oppure [che tempaccio!]; the weather is always a good topic of conversation.

Instead of being silent or keeping a low profile, even if you know the language well, it is always better to use expressions that reveal an interest in what the other person is saying, for example: [ah, sì!] o [dove?] [come?] [quando?] or [perchè?]. These simple expressions provide an opportunity for deeper comments, therefore advancing the conversation. In Italy, at least, there are certain situations in which our silence would be considered rude. Some of these situations take place in bars, hotels, beaches, campsites parties and receptions. In these cases, it is always better to be prepared with certain expressions that can be used to break the ice, for example: [è libero questo posto?] [posso sedermi qui?]  oppure anche [vi dispiace se mi unisco a Voi?].