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

Behind closed doors, Trump treats Xi with a deference he rarely extends to other leaders, according to people familiar with their meetings, replacing jokes intended to break the ice with compliments.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

There was no small talk required to break the ice between these two leaders who have become unlikely friends.

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

“One thing that really helps people break the ice is a lot of times people are really generous with their supplies,” Hansen said.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2025

But if we break the ice, they are like to see.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin

break the ice

Example Sentences

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