Definition

Verb: - To discuss matters related to one's work, profession, or shared professional interests, especially in a social setting where such conversation might be considered overly specialized or boring for others present.

Usage

This phrasal verb is typically used to describe conversation between colleagues or people in the same field. It often carries a mild, informal criticism that the speakers are focusing on work topics when they should be socializing more broadly. It can be used in both positive and gently negative contexts.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The phrase implies a shared professional context. You cannot "talk shop" with someone who is not in your field.
• It is often used in the continuous form ("were talking shop") to describe an observed or ongoing activity.
• The "shop" in the phrase refers metaphorically to one's place or field of work.

Variants and Related Words

• Shop talk (noun): The specialized conversation or jargon associated with a particular profession.
  • The conference was full of impenetrable shop talk about algorithms.

Synonyms

• Discuss work
• Discuss business
• Speak professionally

Antonyms

• Make small talk
• Socialize

Related Idioms

• To leave work at the office: To consciously avoid discussing work matters outside of the workplace, which is the opposite of talking shop.
  • He's good at leaving work at the office and never talks shop with friends.

Verb

1. discuss matters that are related to work
   • As soon as they met, the linguists started to talk shop