ENGLISH
REFERENCE

break cover

idiom
Meaning

To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.


Examples
SIMPLE

He finally broke cover and admitted he hates the new plan.

CONTEXTUAL

During the heated debate, the senator broke cover and revealed his true position on the tax reform.

COMPLEX

After weeks of maintaining a neutral silence, the candidate broke cover to challenge the party leadership on their controversial environmental policy.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    big break

    A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.

  2. 02

    blow someone's cover

    To reveal that someone's behavior, situation, or identity has been fabricated or deliberately misrepresented for an ulterior motive.

  3. 03

    break a leg

    Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.

  4. 04

    break a sweat

    To put effort into something.

  5. 05

    break down

    To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.

  6. 06

    break even

    To neither gain nor lose money.

  7. 07

    break gates

    To enter an Oxford or Cambridge college enclosure after the hour to which a student has been restricted.

  8. 08

    break in

    To reach a state of functioning more smoothly through use or wear; to cause (something, or someone, new) to undergo this change.

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