Idioms & Expressions
Break the ice
Starting conversation in uncomfortable situations
Literal Meaning
To cause ice to crack or break apart, typically referring to frozen water
Actual Meaning
To do something to relieve tension or awkwardness
Examples in Context

'Let's play a game to break the ice.' (Translation: Make everyone comfortable)

Helpful Tips
  • 1Reduce awkwardness
  • 2Start conversations
  • 3Social lubricant
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
ease tension
initiate conversation
lighten the mood
clear the air
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