breɪk ðə aɪs
Relationships
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- To crack or break through ice
What does "break the ice" mean?
- To initiate conversation in an awkward social situation
- To make people feel more comfortable and relaxed
Examples
- The host told a joke to break the ice.
- Let's play a game to break the ice at the party.
- His comment broke the ice and everyone started talking.
Origin
Possibly from icebreaker ships that clear paths through frozen waters for other ships. Metaphorically, 'breaking the ice' clears the way for comfortable interaction. Used figuratively since the 16th century.
How to use it
Very common expression for initiating social interaction. 'Icebreaker' refers to activities or topics designed to help people get comfortable.
Similar expressions
warm up
get things started
make introductions
Opposites
create awkwardness
maintain distance
Related idioms
- see eye to eye
To agree with someone completely
- head over heels
Completely and deeply in love
- pull someone's leg
To tease or joke with someone
- cut someone some slack
To be less strict or demanding with someone
- tie the knot
To get married
- burn bridges
To destroy relationships or opportunities permanently
Use it in a practice answer
Try "break the ice" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.