break the cycle
To act so as to end a repeating pattern of harmful or otherwise negative behavior.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He wants to break the cycle of bad habits.”
“By choosing a different career path than his parents, he hoped to break the cycle of poverty in his family.”
“The new policy aims to break the cycle of systemic inequality by providing equal educational opportunities to students from all neighborhoods.”
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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.
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break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
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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.
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break even
To neither gain nor lose money.
Last updated August 10, 2026