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Idioms

break the ice

This page is about the idiom break the ice

Meaning

If you break the ice you say or do something to create a more relaxed atmosphere when meeting people for the first time.

For example

  • What do you do in a new class to help break the ice and get students talking?

  • Knowing how to break the ice is one of those social skills that will come with experience and maturity.

Origin: Probably metaphorical, from the fact that ships called ice-breakers cut channels through ice floes to allow other ships to pass through.

Quick Quiz

People will usually try to find a way to break the ice if they are with others they

a. see every day

b. meet in a class every week

c. have never met before
a) see every day b) meet in a class every week c) have never met before

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Common English Idioms

Contributor: Matt Errey