# break the story

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/break-the-story
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be the first to address or publicize an issue, often a news story.

## Examples

- The local newspaper was the first to break the story.
- The reporter worked all night to verify the facts before her network could break the story to the public.
- Although the government attempted to suppress the scandal, an investigative journalist managed to break the story, triggering a massive public outcry.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.