What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chatting
Example
We spent the afternoon chatting about our favorite movies. [chatting: verb]
Example
They were sitting in the park, chatting and laughing. [chatting: present participle]
talking
Example
I enjoy talking to my grandparents on the phone. [talking: gerund]
Example
They were talking about their plans for the weekend. [talking: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Talking is more commonly used than chatting in everyday language. Talking is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts and can be used in both formal and informal situations. Chatting, on the other hand, is more commonly used in informal and social settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between chatting and talking?
While chatting is associated with a casual and informal tone, talking can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Talking can be adjusted to match the level of formality required in a given situation.
