# breakaway

/ˈbɹeɪkəˌweɪ/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪkəwˌeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/breakaway
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the act of leaving a group or organization to start something new and independent. You use this when a smaller group decides they no longer want to be part of the main one.

For teachers: the act of separating from a larger group, organization, or political entity to form an independent unit. Often used to describe political factions, sports leagues, or religious groups.

## Examples

- The small group formed a breakaway party after the election.
- Several clubs threatened to form a breakaway league if their demands for more revenue were not met by the national association.
- The region's breakaway movement gained significant momentum following the collapse of the central government, leading to a decade of diplomatic tension regarding its unrecognized sovereignty.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'breakaway group' or 'breakaway region'.

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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.