Differences between break in and break out
Break in means to enter a building or a room illegally, while break out means to escape from a place or situation.
Meanings and Definitions: break in vs break out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Break in
- 1Go into a building to steal something.
The burglars BROKE IN and stole the TV and video.
- 2Interrupt something.
I'm sorry to BREAK IN on your conversation, but there's a problem.
- 3Train a horse to be ridden.
It took ages to BREAK the horse IN.
- 4Carefully use new products until they are fully functional..
I must watch my speed until I BREAK IN my new Volvo.
Break out
- 1Start ( war, conflict ).
They're worried that war will BREAK OUT.
Usage Examples: break in, break out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break in
Example
The thieves broke in and stole the jewelry.
Example
He breaks in to houses when the owners are on vacation.
break out
Example
They're worried that war will break out.
Example
When a fire breaks out, it's important to stay calm and evacuate the building.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break in
To enter someone's property without permission or legal right.
Example
The hikers were fined for trespassing on private land.
To enter a place or situation where one is not wanted or invited.
Example
I didn't want to intrude on their conversation, so I waited until they finished before approaching them.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break out
To get away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.
Example
The prisoners escaped from the jail by digging a tunnel under the wall.
erupt
To suddenly start happening or appearing, especially something violent or unpleasant.
Example
The volcano erupted and covered the nearby villages with ash and lava.
flare up
To suddenly become more intense or serious, especially a conflict or disease.
Example
The argument flared up again when they started discussing politics.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “in”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in break in vs break out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break in or break out?
In daily conversation, people use break out more often than break in. This is because break out can be used in various situations such as escaping from a place, skin problems, or wars. Break in is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about illegal activities. So, while both phrases are used, break out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break in and break out
Break in and break out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break in and break out
The tone of break in and break out can differ based on context. Break in often carries a negative or criminal tone when related to entering a building or room illegally, while break out typically has a more positive or adventurous tone, especially when referring to escaping from a difficult situation.
