Question:
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom “Break the ice”.
Choose the correct meaning of the idiom “Break the ice”.
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Think of an uncomfortable social silence as a cold layer of ice sitting over a room. By asking a warm question, you "break the ice" and let a friendly conversation flow!
Updated On: May 30, 2026
- To shatter something
- To start a conversation comfortably
- To feel cold
- To end a relationship
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Idioms are phrases whose figurative meanings cannot be understood simply by looking at the literal definitions of the individual words. The expression "break the ice" deals with social dynamics, behavior, and feelings of awkwardness or tension when people meet each other for the first time.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Historically, this idiom originates from ships called "icebreakers" that were designed to clear a navigation path through frozen waters so other ships could pass safely. Figuratively, when people meet for the first time, the atmosphere can feel cold, silent, or socially frozen. "Breaking the ice" means saying or doing something—such as telling a lighthearted joke, asking a friendly question, or playing a short game—to relieve that initial tension, overcome awkwardness, and start a conversation comfortably. This directly matches Option (b).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The meaning of the idiom is option (b).
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