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Glite Dictionary
pipe-opener

pipe-opener

8.4
An action or remark that starts a conversation
  • noun
  • /ˈpaɪpˌoʊpənər/
translation icon : rompehielos
  • Starting with a light-hearted question can be a good pipe-opener at a networking event.

Examples

  • Her clever anecdote worked as the perfect pipe-opener at the dinner table.

  • A group game served as an effective pipe-opener during the team retreat.

  • A simple pipe-opener can make a big difference in a conversation.

  • What was the best pipe-opener you used at the party?

  • Starting with a light-hearted question can be a good pipe-opener at a networking event.

  • Her clever anecdote worked as the perfect pipe-opener at the dinner table.

  • A group game served as an effective pipe-opener during the team retreat.

Synonyms

icebreaker
vspipe-opener
13 4.1

Something people do to make others feel relaxed and start talking

is any action that starts social interaction, not only formal settings
conversation starter
vspipe-opener
7 3.5

Something that makes people start talking, like a topic or object

is an action or activity used to ease social interaction rather than an item
icebreaker game
vspipe-opener
1 3.4

A game that helps people in a group meet and start talking

is any action remark or activity not limited to games

How Effective

icebreaker
13 4.1
pipe-opener
8.4
small talk
  • Informal
65 2.1

Surface Forms

pipe-opener singular
pipe-openers plural

Morphology

pipe-opener = pipe + opener (semi-transparent) = pipe + open + er

Formally a compound of 'pipe' + 'opener', but the use of 'pipe' metaphorically for a conversational channel is not fully predictable for many learners.

Etymology

Pipe-opener is easy to remember if you see it as pipe + opener: picture opening a pipe so water can flow, and imagine a question or story doing the same for talk. So, a pipe-opener is something that helps start a conversation or makes people begin to speak.