break the ice

VERB

prepare the way

Synonyms

WEAK

be friendly and talkative break ground cut the first turf get one's feet wet lay the first stone lead off lead the way make a start oil the works open the way pave the way set at ease smooth the path socialize start start the ball rolling take the plunge

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Over two decades later, in February 1972, then US president Richard Nixon flew to China to break the ice.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

Last year, out of what he said was concern for young people and the nation’s birthrates, Ackman urged more men to approach women and break the ice by asking, “May I meet you?”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

We began with some very brief small talk, which always helps to break the ice before a formal sit down, but we didn't touch the topic at hand until the cameras started rolling.

From BBC • May 3, 2025

Using shared interests to break the ice on social networking sites can help users overlook other differences at first.

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

I remained as mute as Friday to Crusoe, hoping that he'd break the ice.

From "Hole in My Life" by Jack Gantos

break the ice

Example Sentences

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