How is the way you chat with old friends different from chatting with people you've just met?

A natural way to answer

With close friends the conversation is effortless because we already have shared history. With strangers I have to do more work to find common ground, so I tend to play it safe and stick to neutral topics at first.

Key phrases to use

• say whatever comes to mind — speak freely without filtering or planning your words“With her I can say whatever comes to mind.”
• treading carefully — being cautious so you don't upset or offend someone“It's a sensitive subject, so I'm treading carefully.”
• play it safe — choose the cautious, low-risk option“I'll play it safe and stick to small talk.”