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Chat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chat

[tʃæt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

online communication

A conversation between two or more people taking place over the internet, typically in real time.

Synonyms

conversation, discussion, talk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chat

Used for informal, light-hearted conversations, usually between friends or acquaintances.

  • We had a nice chat over coffee
  • Let's chat about our weekend plans
conversation

A general term that can be used for any verbal exchange between two or more people, whether formal or informal.

  • Our conversation lasted for hours
  • They enjoyed a pleasant conversation
talk

Can refer to both formal and informal verbal exchanges, often used to signify a specific instance of communication. Sometimes, it can indicate a one-sided speech or lecture.

  • I need to have a talk with my boss
  • We had a good talk about our goals for the future
discussion

Usually refers to a conversation focused on a specific topic, often more serious or detailed, and can include multiple viewpoints.

  • We had a discussion about the project deadline
  • The meeting included a discussion on climate change

Examples of usage

  • I had a chat with my friend on the messaging app.
  • Let's have a quick chat about the project updates.
Context #2 | Verb

casual conversation

To engage in informal conversation.

Synonyms

converse, gossip, talk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chat

Used for casual, light-hearted conversations, often about daily life or small topics. Typically informal and relaxed.

  • Let's chat over coffee tomorrow.
  • We had a quick chat before the meeting.
converse

Used for more formal or meaningful discussions, often involving the exchange of ideas or deeper subjects.

  • They conversed about philosophy until late at night.
  • She enjoys conversing with her colleagues about various topics.
talk

A general term for speaking with someone. It can be used in various contexts, both casual and formal.

  • Can we talk about what happened yesterday?
  • He gave a talk on environmental issues at the conference.
gossip

Refers to speaking about others, often sharing rumors or personal details. Has a negative connotation as it implies sharing information that may not be true or is private.

  • I overheard them gossiping about their coworker.
  • Gossiping can seriously harm someone's reputation.

Examples of usage

  • We chatted about the weather.
  • I enjoy chatting with my colleagues during breaks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • The rise of instant messaging apps in the late 1990s popularized the use of 'chat' in online communication.
  • Chatbots, designed to converse with users, have transformed customer service interactions in recent years.
  • Video chat technology became widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing people to connect virtually.

Social Interaction

  • Casual conversations can improve social bonds and help in building friendships and community connections.
  • Research has shown that engaging in friendly 'chats' can have psychological benefits, reducing stress.
  • Small talk, a type of chat, helps people bond and can serve as a bridge to deeper conversations.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV often features 'chat' segments where contestants discuss their thoughts and feelings about events.
  • Many social media platforms emphasize chat features, allowing users to interact and share ideas instantly.
  • The rise of podcasting has taken the chat format to new levels, with hosts engaging in long-form conversations on diverse topics.

Education

  • Chatting plays a significant role in language development for children, helping them learn new words and communication skills.
  • Group discussions in classrooms utilize chat as a way to encourage participation and collaboration among students.
  • Teachers often use chat tools for fostering engagement and allowing shy students to express their thoughts more freely.

Origin of 'chat'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chat' comes from the Old French word 'chatter,' which means to talk or chatter.
  • In the early 18th century, 'chat' referred specifically to light or trivial conversation.
  • The term evolved in the digital age to describe online messaging and discussions.

The word 'chat' originated from the Middle English word 'chatten', which meant 'to talk, converse' in a light, familiar manner. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in online communication to describe informal conversations over the internet.

See also: chatter, chattiness, chatting, chatty, chitchat.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,145, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.