Break the ice” is a common english expression. It means “to get comfortable with someone.”
There are many ways to start talking to someone new. I recommend that you memorize only two or three, so you don't forget them pick ones that you can use anywhere, anytime. Which ones sound most natural to you? The most important thing is that you're comfortable saying them.
Here's the easiest one: just say hello and your name. Then, if possible, shake hands.
Amy: Hello. I'm Amy.
(Offer your hand.)
Brian: Hello, I'm Brian.
(Shake hands.)
Amy nice to meet you.
See? It's that easy. You can also break the ice by using other common greetings like “good morning,” “good afternoon” and “good evening.”
Aside from asking questions, another good way to break the ice is to ask for very basic information. This gives you a reason for starting the conversation.
Here are some examples:
Excuse me, do you know what time it is?
Sorry to bother you, but where is the meeting?
Excuse me, are you going to the restaurant?
Pick a topic that is happening currently, and that you actually want or need information about.
Another great ice breaker is a compliment. Find something you like about them and tell them.
Be a little careful here when picking an object to compliment. Don't compliment them as a whole person, because they might be offended or think it's too forward (overly-friendly).
I love your dress.
You have a beautiful dog.
Is that your car? I really like it.
2. Ask Follow-up Questions
You need to keep the conversation going.
To do this, have more simple questions ready. Like before, have three or four questions memorized.
Questions are always better than comments, because they make the other person talk, and this gives you time so that you can think of new things to say.
How are you?
Where are you from?
What are you doing here? or What brings you here?
Are you having a good time?
3. Listen and Ask More Questions
Two High School Students Standing Outside Building
If you aren't confident in your English skills, it's much easier to listen to the other person than it is to speak.
Pay attention to the answers from your first questions and ask for more details. People like talking about themselves, so this won't be a problem. Below are some sample conversations.
Amy: How are you?
Brian: A little tired.
Amy: Why is that?
Brian: I didn't sleep well last night.
Amy: I'm sorry to hear that. What went wrong?
Brian: I'm a bit jet-lagged from my flight.
Amy: I bet. Where did you fly from?
Brian: I came from London last night.
Amy: That's far! Was it a long flight?
Brian: Just a few hours. But I had a long layover i
