break bread together

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break bread together" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe sharing a meal with others, often symbolizing friendship or community. Example: "During the holidays, our family always makes it a point to break bread together and enjoy each other's company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

People break bread together versus have a meal delivered.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The two enemies break bread together, and Achilles honorably grants Priam's request.

The New Yorker

In other words, we will probably break bread together as a group again.

The New York Times

The duo has two CD's, "Avadim Hayinu" and "Let Us Break Bread Together," released last November.

The New York Times

The four men will break bread together this evening, Mr. Rubenstein said.

The New York Times

Refusing to break bread together is neither about dishonouring the host, nor is it a threat or a provocation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

If you can make it happen, there are few substitutes for breaking bread together.

University of California, Berkeley

"It was the first time we'd ever broken bread together," Garvey said.

The New York Times - Sports

They usually eat together before talking about politics — an effort to push a primitive cooperation button by breaking bread together.

The New York Times

"This is a way of breaking bread together," said Erin McCarrick, the executive director of the state Democratic Party.

The New York Times

Each normally respected the other's rules, but the fact that each group had different taboos kept them from breaking bread together and mingling socially.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "break bread together" to emphasize the social and communal aspect of sharing a meal, suggesting a sense of friendship and connection beyond just eating.

Common error

Avoid using "break bread together" in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more direct alternatives like "share a meal" or "dine together" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break bread together" functions as an idiomatic expression signifying the sharing of a meal in a communal setting. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide application in various contexts, demonstrating its role in conveying social interaction and fellowship.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

24%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science & Research

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiomatic phrase "break bread together" is a widely recognized and frequently used expression that goes beyond the simple act of eating. It symbolizes the sharing of a meal with others, fostering friendship and community. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across diverse contexts, from news and media to academia. While generally neutral in tone, it's best suited for contexts where conveying a sense of community is desired, avoiding overuse in strictly formal or technical writing. The phrase's enduring presence in language underscores its importance in expressing human connection and shared experience. Alternatives like "share a meal" or "dine together" offer more direct options for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Break bread

A shorter, less common version of the original phrase.

Eat together

A simple and direct way of expressing the act of sharing a meal.

Have a meal together

A more descriptive way of saying "eat together".

Share a meal

Focuses on the act of eating together, removing the idiomatic element.

Dine together

Emphasizes the formal aspect of having a meal in company.

Share a table

Highlights the communal aspect of dining at the same table.

Communal dining

Highlights the social experience of shared dining.

Feast together

Implies a celebratory and abundant meal shared in company.

Share sustenance

Highlights the nourishing aspect of food and shared experience.

Partake in a meal

A formal and somewhat archaic way to describe sharing a meal.

FAQs

What does it mean to "break bread together"?

To "break bread together" means to share a meal with someone, symbolizing friendship, fellowship, and community. It's about more than just eating; it's about connecting with others.

How can I use "break bread together" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe any situation where people are sharing a meal and building relationships. For example, "The conference provided opportunities for attendees to "break bread together" and network informally."

What can I say instead of "break bread together"?

You can use alternatives like "share a meal", "dine together", or simply "eat together", depending on the level of formality required.

Is "break bread together" a formal or informal expression?

It leans towards the informal side, suggesting a sense of conviviality and connection. While acceptable in many contexts, more formal situations might benefit from using phrases like "have a meal together".