break into
The phrase "break into" can describe both literal and figurative actions, often involving sudden or forceful entry or initiation.
Definition
B2Crime
(illegal, forceful)To enter a building or vehicle unlawfully, usually with the intent to commit a crime.
Example
- The burglar broke into the house through the back door.
- Our car was broken into while we were shopping.
B2Career
(professional, business)To achieve initial success in a new field or market.
Example
- She finally broke into the film industry after years of hard work.
- The company is trying to break into the Asian market.
B2Sudden Action
(emotional, spontaneous)To begin an action suddenly or unexpectedly.
Example
- He broke into a run when he saw the bus approaching.
- She broke into tears upon hearing the news.
B2Resources
(emergency)To start using something that has been saved for an emergency.
Example
- They had to break into their savings to pay for the repairs.
- The hikers broke into their emergency food supplies after getting lost.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "break into":
break inbreak and enterbreak throughbreak outbreaking and enteringget intobreak withbust outcrack openbreak coverenter intorun intoburst outcrack outgo intobreak opencome intobreak downsneak incrack throughstart intobreak awayburst upcut intobutt inwalk intoget inbang down the doorgo inbreak ranksbreak the icefall intobreak groundgo in ondip intobreak the storyrun in withjump inword breakbreak the bankplough intotap intocome incheck into