Translation guide
The temperature at which a solid becomes a liquid. In Japanese, the most common term is 融点 (ゆうてん). For figurative uses like 'breaking the ice' in a social situation, different expressions are used.
The temperature at which a solid substance turns into a liquid.
The standard scientific term for melting point. Used in chemistry, physics, and everyday contexts when discussing the melting of solids.
The moment when tension or awkwardness in a social situation dissolves, similar to 'breaking the ice'.
Literally 'the moment tension melts away'. Used to describe when a stiff atmosphere becomes relaxed.
彼の冗談で緊張が解ける瞬間だった。
It was the moment the tension melted away with his joke.
Do not use 融点 (ゆうてん) for social situations. It only refers to physical melting point. For figurative 'melting point' as in breaking the ice, use phrases like 緊張が解ける瞬間 or 打ち解けるきっかけ.
氷の融点は0度です。
The melting point of ice is 0 degrees.
この金属は融点が高い。
This metal has a high melting point.
A synonym for 融点, also meaning melting point. Slightly more formal or technical, but interchangeable in most contexts.
物質の融解点を測定する。
Measure the melting point of the substance.
An opportunity or trigger for people to open up and become friendly. Often used for social situations where people start to relax.
共通の趣味が打ち解けるきっかけになった。
A shared hobby became the melting point (icebreaker) for them.