English Reference
Idiom idiom

break the Sabbath


To violate (the holiness or sanctity of) the Sabbath (by not keeping it holy).

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

“Some people believe that working on Sunday breaks the Sabbath.”

CONTEXTUAL

“In this strict community, you risk being shunned if you break the Sabbath by doing chores.”

COMPLEX

“The elders debated whether performing emergency medical services during the holy day could be considered a valid reason to break the Sabbath.”


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

    big break

    A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.

  4. 04

    break a leg

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

  5. 05

    break a sweat

    To put effort into something.

  6. 06

    break cover

    To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.

  7. 07

    break down

    To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.

  8. 08

    break even

    To neither gain nor lose money.

Last updated August 10, 2026