break the ice <Back to Last Page>     <Idiomatic English Glossary - B>

Definition: relax and start a conversation in a formal situation; begin a difficult conversation on a relaxed note

Explanation: Usually used when talking about job interviews or other uncomforable situations which cause people to be nervous.

Examples: Nobody was enjoying the party until the host finally was able to break the ice. - The interviewer broke the ice by asking how I had arrived.

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