break in: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘break in’ mean?
The idiom "break in" means to make or force entry into a place, usually by using force. It can also mean to train or get accustomed to a new activity or job.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "rush in" means to enter or engage in something hastily or without considering the consequences.
The idiomatic phrase "rush in" is a commonly used expression in American English that dates back several centuries. It means to quickly enter a situation or take action without thinking or hesitating. This phrase is often used to convey spontaneity or impulsive behavior.
The idiom "kick in" means to start or take effect, typically referring to the beginning of a process, action, or reaction.
The idiom "kick in" has several meanings and uses in the English language. Here are the facts about this idiom:
The term "kick in" comes from the verb "kick," which means to strike with the foot.
The idiom "jack in" means to give up, quit or abandon something, usually abruptly or without warning. It can refer to quitting a job, ending a relationship, or discontinuing an activity or endeavor.
The idiomatic phrase "go in with" means to jointly participate or collaborate with someone in a particular action or endeavor.
The idiom "go in with" is a commonly used phrase in English language, often used in informal conversation. It has a specific meaning and usage that is widely understood among native speakers. Here are the facts known about this idiom:
The idiom "get one's foot in the door" means to establish a small opportunity or gain initial access to a job or a new opportunity, which may eventually lead to further success or advancements.
The idiom "get in" means to enter a vehicle or a place. It can also mean to become involved in a situation or to fit into a schedule or plan.
The idiom "fall into" means to unexpectedly begin or find oneself in a particular state, situation, or condition.
The idiom "drop in" means to visit someone or a place without any prior arrangement or notice. It can also refer to a sudden and unexpected event or occurrence.
The idiom "dive in" means to start or begin something quickly and enthusiastically, without hesitation or reservation.
The idiom "dive in" is a commonly used phrase in everyday English, particularly in the United States. It is widely known and understood, making it an integral part of the American English lexicon. The phrase has a figurative meaning that extends beyond its literal interpretation.
"Cut in" is an idiom that means to interrupt or join a conversation or activity without being invited or without waiting for one's turn.
Deciphering the Code
The idiom "break in" has several meanings, depending on the context. One common meaning is to enter forcibly or illegally into a building or property. This can apply to criminal acts like burglary or trespassing. "break into" a building or property is often associated with illegal activities.
Another meaning of "break in" is to gradually make something, like a new pair of shoes or a new car, more comfortable or suitable for use. This process is called "breaking in." It involves wearing or using something repeatedly until it becomes more flexible, less stiff, or more comfortable. This applies to various items, from clothing and footwear to equipment and machinery.
Furthermore, "break in" can describe the process of introducing something or someone into a new situation or environment. For example, a new employee may need time to "break in" and become familiar with the company's processes and culture. Similarly, a new member joining a group may need to "break in" and establish relationships with existing members.
In addition, "break in" can have a figurative meaning when used in conversations or speech. It can refer to interrupting someone or interjecting with a comment or question. This usage is common in informal or casual conversations, where individuals may "break in" to share their thoughts or contribute to the ongoing discussion.
"Break in" has a unique meaning when used in reference to breaking in a horse. In the equestrian world, it refers to the process of training a young or untrained horse to accept a saddle, bridle, and rider. This involves gradually familiarizing the horse with equipment and teaching it basic commands and responses under the guidance of an experienced trainer.
Additionally, the idiom "break in" can also be used informally to describe a sudden or unexpected change in a sequence of events. For example, if a planned event or routine is disrupted or altered unexpectedly, it can be said that something has "broken in" and deviated from the expected course.
The idiom "break into" is related to "break in" and also means to enter forcibly or illegally into a building or property. It specifically emphasizes the act of forcefully gaining entry. Similarly, "break gates" can be used to describe the act of forcibly opening gates to gain access to a place. Both of these idioms highlight the idea of forcibly entering a location.
"burst in" is another related idiom that means to enter a place suddenly and forcefully. It can be used to describe someone entering a room or building without warning or prior invitation. The emphasis is on the sudden and unannounced nature of the entry.
"get in" is an idiom that is often used as a synonym for "break in." It means to gain access to a place, usually by overcoming obstacles or barriers. It can refer to both legal and illegal entry, depending on the context. "Get in" emphasizes the achievement of gaining entry.
"break into a run" is an idiom that means to start running suddenly and with great speed or urgency. It can be used to describe a situation where someone begins running unexpectedly or abruptly. This idiom highlights the suddenness and intensity of the start of the running.
The idiom "break in" has multiple meanings and can be applied to various situations, both literal and figurative. It can refer to forcibly entering a building or property, making something more comfortable through use, introducing something or someone into a new environment, interrupting a conversation, training a horse, or experiencing a sudden change in a sequence of events. The related idioms "break into," "break gates," "burst in," "get in," and "break into a run" each add nuance to the concept of breaking in and provide more specific expressions of forcibly entering, suddenly entering, or quickly starting an activity.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "break in" can be used in a sentence:
- I need to break in these new shoes before wearing them for a long walk.
- The detective was able to break in to the suspect's house and gather evidence.
- The young horse is still being broken in and isn't ready for riding yet.
More "Verb" idioms
