a major break

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major break" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant opportunity or a turning point in a situation, often in the context of success or change. Example: "After years of hard work, she finally got a major break when a famous director offered her a leading role in his new film."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Then Kennan got a major break.

The New Yorker

The show is a major break for Ridge.

The Guardian

It would be a major break from tradition.

The Washington Post

So prosecuting the marabouts is a major break with precedent, Mr. Thioub said.

The New York Times

"This arrest is a major break, a major advance in the investigation," Mr. Browne said.

The New York Times

About a year after the Tenaha suit was filed, its lawyers got a major break.

The New Yorker

Still, for the Modern, the show is a major break with tradition.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"A major break-up is probably three or four years away," said one source with knowledge of the plans.

The Guardian

Italian bicycle and accessories brand 3T has suffered a major break-in this morning at its Bergamo warehouse.

Forbes

In 1950 the use of corticosteroids for chronic anterior uveitis by Gordon and McLean signaled a major break-through in the management of inflammatory eye disease [ 12].

BMC Ophthalmology

It would be a major break from tradition, but the Senate needs a radical change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major break" to describe an event, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a positive opportunity, a disruption, or a deviation from a norm.

Common error

Avoid confusing "break" (an interruption or opportunity) with "brake" (a device for slowing or stopping a vehicle). Using the wrong word can drastically alter your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major break" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a significant opportunity, turning point, or deviation. For example, "Then Kennan got a major break." or "This arrest is a major break".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a major break" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a significant opportunity, turning point, or deviation from the norm. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to distinguish "break" from its homophone "brake" to avoid confusion. Related phrases include "significant opportunity" and ""big break"", providing alternative ways to express similar concepts. Remember to ensure the context clarifies the intended meaning, whether it's a positive opportunity or a disruptive change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Big break

A more concise and informal way to express a significant opportunity.

Crucial opportunity

Highlights the importance of the chance.

Significant opportunity

Focuses on the positive aspect of a chance for advancement or success.

Key breakthrough

Indicates a significant advancement or discovery.

Watershed moment

Implies a pivotal time that divides what came before from what will follow.

Important turning point

Emphasizes the aspect of change and a new direction.

Decisive moment

Emphasizes the critical nature of a particular point in time.

Game changer

Highlights the potential for a fundamental shift in a situation.

Landmark event

Focuses on the historical significance of an occurrence.

Radical departure

Stresses a significant deviation from the established norm or tradition.

FAQs

How can I use "a major break" in a sentence?

You can use "a major break" to describe a significant opportunity, as in, "She finally got a major break in her career." It can also refer to a significant deviation from a tradition, such as, "The new policy represents a major break from the past."

What are some alternatives to "a major break"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "significant opportunity", "big break", or "important turning point".

Is it correct to say "a major break through" instead of "a major break"?

"A major break" and "major breakthrough" have slightly different meanings. "A major break" often implies an opportunity or deviation, while "major breakthrough" specifically refers to a significant advancement or discovery.

What does it mean when someone says they got "a major break"?

It typically means they received a significant opportunity or stroke of luck that will likely lead to success or advancement in their career or life. It implies a positive turning point.