What does “Broken record” mean?

"Broken record" means someone who keeps repeating the same thing over and over again.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He keeps complaining about the same thing, like a broken record.

Example

I feel like I'm talking to a broken record with her constant nagging.

Example

Every time we have a meeting, he brings up the same issue like a broken record

Is “Broken record” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Broken record” 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 “Broken record” effectively in context?

You can use "Broken Record" to describe someone who constantly repeats the same thing, often in a nagging or annoying manner. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom effectively:

1Complaining
He keeps complaining about the same thing, like a broken record.
2Nagging
I feel like I'm talking to a broken record with her constant nagging.
3Recurring Issues
Every time we have a meeting, he brings up the same issue like a broken record.

Similar phrases to “Broken record”:

Beating a dead horse

To continue discussing or arguing about a topic that has already been resolved or is no longer relevant

Example

Bringing up that issue again is like beating a dead horse.

Groundhog Day

Referring to a situation that repeats itself in an endless loop, similar to the movie 'Groundhog Day'

Example

Every day feels like Groundhog Day, with the same routine over and over again.

Same old, same old

Referring to something that is predictable or unchanging

Example

I'm tired of the same old, same old routine.

Echo chamber

A situation where people only hear opinions that align with their own, reinforcing their existing beliefs

Example

Social media can sometimes become an echo chamber, where people only see posts that confirm their own views.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Broken record” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Broken Record" comes from the early days of vinyl records. When a record was scratched or damaged, it would cause the needle to get stuck in a groove, causing the same part of the song to play repeatedly. This repetitive sound gave rise to the idiom, which refers to someone who repeats the same thing over and over again.

Is “Broken record” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Broken Record" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express frustration or annoyance with someone who repeats themselves excessively.

What tone does “Broken record” have?

"Broken Record" conveys a tone of irritation or exasperation. It's often used to describe someone's repetitive behavior in a negative light.

Can “Broken record” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "broken record" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a specific type of behavior. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional discussions.

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

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She keeps repeating herself like a broken record.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stop being a "broken record"!' to imply that someone should stop repeating themselves.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

repeating oneself
rehashing the same thing
going on and on
endless repetition
monotonous repetition

Antonyms

novelty
varied conversation
fresh perspective
diverse topics
changing the subject