phatically

/ˈfætɪkli/
adverb
  1. In a way that relates to social interaction rather than conveying information.
    • The conversation flowed phatically, with everyone exchanging pleasantries.
    • She nodded and smiled phatically, not really listening to the details.
    • They chatted phatically about the weather for a few minutes before getting down to business.
Synonyms