Idioms and Phrases That Use the Word “Break”

Idioms are an interesting part of English. Idioms are a type of figurative language where the meaning of the word or phrase is different from its literal meaning. 

For example, a well-known idiom is:

You can’t judge a book by its cover.

Which means that you shouldn’t judge something/someone on how it/they look(s).

Many of us use idioms all the time without realizing it. But if you’re an author, a songwriter, or a poet, you might seek them out to enhance your work! 

Break is a word that commonly features in idioms. So, in this guide, we’ll be breaking down 14 idioms that use the word break

To make an omelette you have to break a few eggs

Which means that you have to sacrifice some things in order to gain success.

Break even

Which means to have earnt back the same amount of money spent in business, gambling, or investing.

Break away

Which means to separate from something.

Break bread

Which means to eat with someone.

Break wind

Which means to pass gas (excuse you!).

Lucky/big break

A fortunate event or occurrence.

The straw that breaks the camel’s back

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Which means a final action or incident that causes a big, sudden reaction.

Make or break

Which means an event or action that will either bring success or failure.

Make a break

Which means to try to escape or get away from something or a situation.

Breaking point

Which means the point at which someone or something reaches its physical or emotional limit.

Break up

Which means to end a romantic relationship.

Break the spell

Which means to end something that you enjoyed.

Break the ice

Which means to do something that relieves awkwardness or nervousness.

Break the fourth wall

Which means to speak or address an audience directly as an actor.

After those 14 examples, we’ll give you a break.

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