Differences between break into and break out
Break into means to enter a building or a place illegally or by force, while break out means to escape from a place, especially a prison or a dangerous situation.
Meanings and Definitions: break into vs break out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Break into
- 1Suddenly start singing or performing.
I almost expected him to break into song.
- 2to successfully enter or establish oneself in a field.
It’s always been his ambition to break into broadcasting.
- 3Enter a building forcibly and illegally.
Michael Masters was giving her a time, and a day, to break into his house and take his pistols.
- 4To suddenly start laughing uncontrollably.
Suddenly I was aware that his neatly parted grey hair was a wig, a discovery which triggered an irrational urge to break into laughter.
- 5To use or access a reserved or designated resource, not for its original intent.
We had to break into our savings to pay the fine.
Break out
- 1Start ( war, conflict ).
They're worried that war will BREAK OUT.
Usage Examples: break into, break out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break into
Example
The thief tried to break into the house.
Example
He breaks into cars for a living.
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 into
To enter someone's property without permission.
Example
The hikers were fined for trespassing on private land.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break out
To get away from a dangerous or confined situation.
Example
The prisoners managed to escape from the high-security prison by digging a tunnel.
To run away quickly from a dangerous or threatening situation.
Example
The residents had to flee their homes due to the approaching wildfire.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “into”
Differences in break into vs break out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break into or break out?
In daily conversation, people use break into more often than break out. This is because break into is used for more common situations such as breaking into a car or a house. Break out is not used as much, and it's mainly used when we're talking about escaping from a dangerous situation or a place. So, while both phrases are used, break into is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break into and break out
Break into 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 into and break out
The tone of break into and break out can differ based on context. Break into often carries a negative or criminal tone when related to illegal entry, while break out typically has a more urgent and intense tone, especially when referring to escaping from a dangerous situation or a prison.
