break the ice
The phrase 'romper el hielo' directly translates to 'break the ice' in English. It is used in a social context where a person attempts to mitigate tension, start a conversation, or create a more friendly environment. The English and Spanish uses of 'break the ice' are similar. This phrase is often used when meeting someone for the first time, starting a new topic of conversation, or attempting to create ease in a tense situation.
You could break the ice by telling us something about yourself.
This is a suggestion to someone to share some personal information in order to make everyone feel more comfortable talking to each other.
Nothing better to break the ice than a laugh.
This phrase implies that laughter is an effective way to overcome initial social awkwardness or to start a conversation.
To break the ice, let's start with a team activity.
The sentence recommends beginning with a team activity to reduce tension and encourage communication amongst a group.
A funny anecdote always helps to break the ice.
This sentence suggests that telling a funny story can make people feel more comfortable and start a conversation.
A toast can be a good method to break the ice at a meeting.
The example proposes the idea that initiating a toast can ease the tension and start a conversation during a meeting.
The teacher made a joke to break the ice in class.
This phrase implies that the use of humor by a teacher at the beginning of a class can help students feel more comfortable and ready to participate.
A song often breaks the ice at parties.
The example indicates that playing music can encourage interaction and conversation at parties.
Sometimes, you just have to break the ice and start talking.
This advises that initiating a conversation, despite potential initial discomfort, is often the best way to overcome feelings of awkwardness or social tension.
The question game is a good way to break the ice.
This example suggests that by playing a question game, people can become comfortable with each other and start a conversation.
He is usually nervous until someone breaks the ice.
This phrase describes a person who experiences nervousness in social situations until someone else initiates a conversation or makes everyone feel at ease.