Praatje

Praatje is a Dutch noun meaning a short informal conversation or chat. It conveys the idea of light, casual talk between people, often to catch up, ask a quick question, or break the ice. The term is used in both the Netherlands and the Dutch-speaking parts of Belgium (Flanders). It frequently appears in phrases such as een praatje maken, een praatje houden, or Zullen we even een praatje maken? These phrases emphasize informality rather than length.

Praatje is the diminutive form of praat (talk), created with the suffix -je. The diminutive signals a small or friendly version of talking rather than a formal speech. In writing, praatje tends to be reserved for informal speech; in formal contexts one would use gesprek or toespraak instead.

Regional usage varies across Dutch-speaking areas. In some regions, synonyms such as babbel or klets may be preferred for similar ideas. Related terms include praat, gesprek, babbel and kletsen.