Catching up with someone B1
Easing into conversation and keeping it flowing.
break the ice — start talkingA: I was so nervous at my new job.
B: Did you manage to break the ice with your coworkers? A: Yeah, we talked about our favorite movies and it really helped.
come up B2 — be mentioned (in conversation or discussion)A: Did the project deadline come up in the discussion?
B: Yes, we talked about it for a few minutes.
come out B2 — become known (information, truth, secret)A: Did you hear what came out about the company?
B: No, what happened?
Bumping into an old friend
Mia: It's so good to see you! I never know how to break the ice after this long.
Tom: Ha, just dive in. So — how's the new job?
Mia: Busy! Oh, did you hear what happened with Dan? It only just came out.
Tom: No! Tell me everything.
Steering the chat
Tom: Anyway, your name came up at the reunion last month.
Mia: Did it? In a good way, I hope.
Tom: Of course. Hey, let's change the subject before I get nosy — fancy another coffee?
Mia: Go on then, why not.