tough break
A situation resulting in misfortune or hardship; an instance of bad luck.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Losing your keys is a tough break.”
“He missed his flight by only two minutes, which was a tough break for his vacation plans.”
“After training for months, the athlete suffered a sudden injury, a truly tough break that ended her hopes for the championship.”
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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.
- 04
break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
- 05
break a sweat
To put effort into something.
- 06
break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
- 07
break down
To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.
- 08
break even
To neither gain nor lose money.
Last updated August 10, 2026