Break the ice
English Idiom
Meaning: To initiate conversation or interaction in a social setting, making people feel more comfortable and less tense. Often used to describe the first step in getting to know someone or making an awkward situation more relaxed.
Origin: The idiom "Break the ice" originated from the practice of ships breaking through ice in frozen waters to clear a path for other vessels. Metaphorically, it came into common usage in the 16th century to describe initiating or facilitating conversation or social interaction in a new or awkward situation. The phrase emphasizes the importance of easing tension, starting a conversation, or creating a welcoming atmosphere to encourage communication and socialization. It suggests overcoming initial barriers or discomfort to pave the way for more relaxed and productive interactions.
Examples
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During the team-building exercise, the facilitator used a fun game to break the ice.
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At the networking event, I told a joke to break the ice with potential clients.
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She brought a small gift to the dinner party to break the ice with the hosts.
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When meeting his girlfriend's parents for the first time, he talked about their shared love for sports to break the ice.
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The teacher asked each student to share a fun fact about themselves to break the ice on the first day of class.
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Using humor, the keynote speaker successfully broke the ice with the audience.
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In order to ease the tension, he started the meeting with an amusing anecdote to break the ice.
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She decided to break the ice by complimenting her colleague's work during their first collaboration.
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At the family reunion, he broke the ice by sharing childhood stories that everyone could laugh about.
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To make the new employee feel welcome, the team leader organized a casual lunch to break the ice.
