break it to
To deliver unfortunate or upsetting news to someone.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I have to break it to my boss that I am quitting.”
“She was nervous to break it to her parents that she had failed the exam.”
“The doctor sat down with the family, struggling to find the right words to break it to them that the treatment had not worked.”
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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.
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break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
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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