break in
The phrase "break in" can describe actions ranging from illicit entry to the process of familiarizing someone or something with a new role or task.
Definition
B2Crime
(common)To enter a place unlawfully, often by force.
Example
- Thieves attempted to break in through the back door.
- There have been several break-ins in the neighborhood recently.
B2Communication
(common)To interrupt a conversation or activity.
Example
- She broke in while he was speaking.
- Please don't break in during the presentation.
B2Training
(idiomatic)To accustom someone or something to a new role or task through gradual use or practice.
Example
- It took a few weeks to break in the new employee.
- The coach worked hard to break in the new players.
B2Usage
(idiomatic)To make new equipment or clothing more comfortable through use.
Example
- You need to break in these new shoes before the marathon.
- The car's engine needs to be broken in properly.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "break in":
break intobreak withbreak throughbroken inbreak outbreak and enterbreak coverbreak downword breakbreak awaybreak openbreaking and enteringcrack outbreak the moldbreak badcrack throughcrack openbreak rigorbreak ranksbreak the icebreak breadbreak the storybreak upbust outbreak offbreak evenkick inbreak groundgive someone a breakcome inbutt inknock ingo inget inbreak the silencebreak new groundbreak the back ofline breakbreak someone's backbreak a sweatsneak incut inlet inbreak waterbreak the bankslip inwalk ingimme a breakbreak aparttough breakcreep instep inrun intoblow inbreak one's fastcome into