Break even: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Break even” mean?

"Break even" means to reach a point where the income or profit equals the expenses or costs.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The company needs to sell 100 units in order to break even.

Example

After months of losses, the business finally managed to break even.

Example

We can't lower the price any further or we won't break even

Is “Break even” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Break even” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Break even” effectively in context?

You can use "Break even" to describe a situation where the income or profit equals the expenses or costs. It is often used in business and financial contexts. For example, if a company needs to sell a certain number of units to cover its costs, you might say, 'The company needs to sell 100 units in order to break even.'

• 1. Business

  After months of losses, the business finally managed to break even.

• 2. Pricing

  We can't lower the price any further or we won't break even.

• 3. Investments

  He calculated that he needed to earn a certain amount to break even on his investment.

Similar phrases to “Break even”:

Cover costs

To generate enough revenue to pay for all expenses

Example

The company needs to increase sales to cover costs.

Make ends meet

To have enough money to cover expenses and live comfortably

Example

They had to take on a second job to make ends meet.

Turn a profit

To make a financial gain or profit

Example

The business finally turned a profit after years of losses.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Break even” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Break even" is unknown.

Is “Break even” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Break even" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation, especially in business and financial discussions. It is widely understood and used by both native and non-native English speakers.

What tone does “Break even” have?

"Break even" conveys a neutral tone. It is a factual expression used to describe a specific financial situation. It is not particularly positive or negative in tone.

Can “Break even” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Break even" is a formal expression commonly used in business and financial settings. It is appropriate to use in professional conversations, presentations, and written reports.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The company needs to increase sales to break even.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'We need to break even' to imply the goal of reaching a point where income equals expenses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• balance the books
• reach the break-even point
• achieve financial equilibrium
• cover expenses

Antonyms

• incur losses
• operate at a loss
• go into debt
• fail to break even