break the ice
Meaning
To do or say something that reduces initial tension and makes people feel more comfortable, especially when strangers first meet.
Origin
From the literal act of breaking ice to open a route for ships; by the 16th–17th centuries it was used metaphorically for clearing social stiffness and opening conversation.
Notes
Neutral to positive tone. Used for easing awkwardness at first meetings, events, or meetings. Often refers to a small opener (joke, question, intro), not a major action.
Examples
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To break the ice at the meeting, she asked everyone to share a fun fact about themselves.
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I told a light joke to break the ice with my new neighbors.
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The teacher used a quick game to break the ice on the first day of class.
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Sending a friendly message can help break the ice before a difficult conversation.
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He brought up their shared hobby to break the ice and start chatting.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: usually “break the ice” with the article “the.” Can be inflected (broke/broken) and used as verb phrase (“to break the ice,” “icebreaker” as noun). Often followed by “with/by” + action.
Synonyms
- ease the tension
- get the ball rolling
- start things off
- open the conversation
- make introductions
Antonyms
- create tension
- make things awkward