ENGLISH
REFERENCE

break the mold

idiom
Meaning

To depart from a traditional pattern; to defy convention.


Origin

disputed origin

From the use of molds to make multiple replicas of solid objects using moldable materials.

Examples
SIMPLE

She really broke the mold with her unique painting style.

CONTEXTUAL

The new manager decided to break the mold by letting employees choose their own working hours.

COMPLEX

By rejecting the rigid traditions of his predecessors, the young architect managed to break the mold and create a truly revolutionary design.

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

    break a leg

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

  3. 03

    break a sweat

    To put effort into something.

  4. 04

    break cover

    To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.

  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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