break the ice

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

Conversation flowed effortlessly at our table, so much so that we didn’t even pull out the question game that Timeleft provides to help break the ice.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 17, 2024

Though Ben had pleaded for the station wagon, Bull had insisted that the Plymouth was a conversation piece and would help break the ice on Ben’s first date.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy