break into
To enter illegally or by force, especially in order to commit a crime.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Someone tried to break into my car last night.”
“The police arrived quickly after the alarm sounded when the thieves tried to break into the jewelry store.”
“The security system failed to detect the intruder who managed to break into the high-security vault during the middle of the night.”
- 01
all bedlam breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 02
all hell breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 03
big break
A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.
- 04
break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
- 05
break a sweat
To put effort into something.
- 06
break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
- 07
break down
To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.
- 08
break even
To neither gain nor lose money.
Last updated August 10, 2026