To initiate conversation in a social setting to relieve tension or awkwardness.
When do you use "Break the ice"?
This phrase is commonly used in social situations where people may feel uncomfortable or shy, such as at parties, meetings, or during introductions.
"Break the ice" Usage Examples
To break the ice at the networking event, she started with a light-hearted joke.
He suggested a fun game to break the ice before the serious discussions began.
The teacher used an icebreaker activity to help the students get to know each other on the first day of class.
During the interview, the candidate shared a funny story to break the ice with the panel.
To break the ice, they decided to share their favorite travel experiences.
"Break the ice" Explained
The phrase 'break the ice' has its origins in the practice of ships breaking the ice to create a passage for others to follow. This metaphorical usage evolved to describe the act of overcoming social awkwardness or tension, allowing people to engage more freely in conversation.