break

/breɪk/

Reviewed on

Also a noun

Meaning

  1. To separate into pieces as a result of a blow, shock, or strain.

    • Be careful carrying that box because the antique ceramic vase could break easily.

  2. To stop functioning properly or cause a device or system to fail.

    • The latest software update managed to break several key features on my phone.

  3. To fail to follow or adhere to a rule, law, promise, or agreement.

    • He knew that driving over the speed limit meant he would break the law.

How it's used

When this means “separate into pieces”

  • break the dish
  • break

“broke it.”

Be careful not to break the dish.

When this means “fail to follow a rule”

  • break the rule

“break it.”

She refused to break her promise to keep the secret.

Collocations

  • break a promise
  • break the rules
  • break the law
  • break a habit
  • break a record
  • break easily

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

  • break the ice

    relieve tension at a first meeting

    He told a lighthearted joke to break the ice before the presentation started.

  • break a leg

    said to wish a performer good luck

    Her friends texted her to break a leg right before she walked onstage.

  • break the bank

    cost more money than one can afford

    Buying a reliable laptop does not have to break the bank.