idle talk

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Explanation of "Idle Talk"

Definition: "Idle talk" refers to conversations that are not serious or meaningful. It often involves discussing trivial matters or gossiping rather than talking about important topics. The talk is usually seen as foolish or irrelevant.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "idle talk" can also refer to discussions that might lead to misunderstandings or spread rumors. It can imply that the speaker believes the topic should not have been discussed at all.

Word Variants:

• Idle (adjective): Not active or in use; doing nothing.
  • Example: "He spent an idle afternoon reading."
• Talk (noun): A conversation or discussion.
  • Example: "We had a long talk about our future plans."

Different Meanings:

While "idle talk" specifically refers to unimportant conversations, "idle" on its own can describe someone who is lazy or inactive. "Talk" can refer to any form of communication, serious or not.

Synonyms:

• Gossip
• Chit-chat
• Small talk
• Nonsense
• Rambling

Idioms:

• "Talk is cheap": This means that it is easy to say something, but it may not be meaningful or valuable.
• "Talk a blue streak": To talk quickly and continuously, often without significant content.

Phrasal Verbs:

• "Talk about": To discuss a particular topic, but can sometimes lead to idle talk if the topic is trivial.
  • Example: "They talked about the latest celebrity gossip all evening."

Summary:

"Idle talk" is a noun that describes conversations that are not serious or meaningful. It's often associated with gossip and trivial discussions.

Academic

Noun

1. idle or foolish and irrelevant talk

Synonyms

• prate
• prattle
• blether
• chin music