What does the idiom "break the ice" mean?

Question

What does the idiom "break the ice" mean?

1. A. To build a wall
2. B. To start a conversation (Correct answer)
3. C. To cause a disruption
4. D. To make a mistake

Correct Answer

Option B — To start a conversation

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is To start a conversation.

Key Points

• "Break the ice" means to say or do something that relieves initial awkwardness between people who do not know each other, so that conversation can begin.
• The image is of a ship breaking through frozen water to open a passage — the phrase carries that same sense of clearing the way.
• Example: *He told a joke to break the ice at the start of the meeting.*

Additional Information

• To build a wall — the opposite idea, creating a barrier between people.
• To cause a disruption — closer to "rock the boat" or "upset the applecart".
• To make a mistake — that would be "slip up" or "drop a clanger".