This is the 10246th most frequent Japanese word.
雑談
Casual or idle chatter; small talk.
Here, "雑談" denotes casual small talk before a formal meeting, highlighting its nature as an introductory or filler speech.
雑談が長引いてしまい、会議が少し遅れて始まった。
The casual chat went on for too long, and the meeting started a little late.
In this sentence, "雑談" is referring to someone's skill in informal and friendly communications, emphasizing a social competency.
彼は雑談が得意で、誰とでもすぐ仲良くなれる。
He is good at casual talk and can quickly get along with anyone.
The word "雑談" is used here to indicate an informal or casual conversation usually not tied to work or formal topics.