break the ice

== English == === Etymology === By application of the metaphor that strangers are socially separated by ice. === Pronunciation === (US, UK) IPA(key): /ˈbɹeɪk ði ˈaɪs/ === Verb === break the ice (third-person singular simple present breaks the ice, present participle breaking the ice, simple past broke the ice, past participle broken the ice) (idiomatic) To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality. (idiomatic) To introduce a conversation. (idiomatic) To surmount initial difficulties; to overcome obstacles and make a beginning. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see break,‎ the,‎ ice. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ====