ENGLISH
REFERENCE

break the back of

idiom
Meaning

To complete the greater part of (a project) or solve the most critical part of (a problem).


Examples
SIMPLE

We have broken the back of this project today.

CONTEXTUAL

After working all weekend on the report, we finally broke the back of the most difficult section.

COMPLEX

Once the team broke the back of the complex technical challenges, the remaining tasks seemed much easier to manage.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bedlam breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  3. 03

    all the way to Egery and back

    The long way; a roundabout route; a long distance to travel.

  4. 04

    back down

    To take a less aggressive position in a conflict than one previously had, or has planned to have.

  5. 05

    back forty

    The most remote or inaccessible part of any place.

  6. 06

    back gammon player

    A person, chiefly a homosexual, who has anal sex.

  7. 07

    back in the game

    Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.

  8. 08

    back into

    To advance to the post-season as a result of another team's loss, especially where one's own team has also lost.

Last updated April 17, 2026