breaking the code

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breaking the code" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is deciphering or understanding a complex system, message, or set of rules. Example: "After weeks of analysis, the team finally succeeded in breaking the code of the encrypted message."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The experience was like Helen Keller breaking the code for the word "water".

The New York Times

"That goes a long way toward breaking the code of secrecy," he said.

The New York Times

The only penalty for breaking the code is dismissal from the university.

The New York Times

In "Halo" the dancers perform the breaching of a taboo — touching strangers, breaking the code of performance — with forceful intent.

The New York Times - Arts

He was involved in the "breaking the code project" during the war and the United States Strategic Bombing Survey.

The New York Times

Men who are breaking the code of silence are doing so with physicians in hospital emergency rooms, who in turn report their findings to the federal government.

The New York Times

His invective is couched in the rhetoric of a loyal party man who feels uncomfortable about breaking the code of silence.

The Economist

By breaking the code, the man acknowledged himself as a witness to what, despite the pretense, had been a very public outburst.

The New York Times

"And then you come here and you talk to real people, and their lives, and it's kind of like breaking the code.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it's significant that so far the Venezuelan government, rather than denying Aponte's allegations, has mostly chosen to attack him for disloyalty, for breaking the code of omertà that defines Chavista justice.

The New York Times

In one he told how for hundreds of years physicians were kept in the dark about childbirth, and how, when in 1522, a doctor was seized & burned at stake for breaking the code of modesty by attending a confenement.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "breaking the code" to add a sense of accomplishment or discovery. When referring to revealing secrets, make sure the context aligns with the idea of uncovering previously hidden information.

Common error

Avoid using "breaking the code" when the situation involves simply understanding something straightforward. This phrase is most appropriate when there's a sense of solving a complex or hidden problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breaking the code" functions primarily as a verb phrase often used metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its use to describe deciphering complex systems, messages, or sets of rules, revealing hidden meanings or solutions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "breaking the code" is a versatile phrase used to describe deciphering complex systems or understanding hidden meanings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, primarily in news, science, and general discussions. While suitable for formal writing, it’s essential to ensure contextual appropriateness. Alternatives like "cracking the code" or "deciphering the code" offer similar meanings, with subtle differences in emphasis. When employing "breaking the code", ensure it aligns with the complexity and discovery involved in the specific scenario. This phrase's widespread use and metaphorical adaptability make it a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cracking the code

Replaces "breaking" with "cracking", implying a successful decryption or solution.

deciphering the code

Substitutes "breaking" with "deciphering", emphasizing the process of understanding a complex system.

decoding the message

Focuses on interpreting a specific message rather than a general code.

solving the puzzle

Presents the code as a puzzle to be solved, highlighting the challenge.

unraveling the mystery

Suggests a sense of uncovering hidden information or understanding something previously unknown.

violating the protocol

Emphasizes the act of not following established rules or procedures.

breaching the secrecy

Highlights the act of revealing information that was meant to be kept secret.

compromising the encryption

Relates specifically to undermining encryption methods.

circumventing the regulations

Focuses on finding ways to avoid following established rules or laws.

understanding the system

Shifts the focus to comprehension rather than the act of breaking or solving.

FAQs

How can I use "breaking the code" in a sentence?

You can use "breaking the code" to describe deciphering a complex message, understanding a difficult system, or revealing a previously hidden secret. For example: "The detective finally succeeded in "breaking the code" of the criminal's communication method."

What are some alternatives to "breaking the code"?

Alternatives include "cracking the code", "deciphering the code", or "solving the puzzle depending on the specific context".

Is "breaking the code" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "breaking the code" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing complex problem-solving or deciphering information. However, consider the specific tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall style.

What's the difference between "breaking the code" and "breaking the law"?

"Breaking the code" refers to deciphering or understanding something complex, or violating a set of rules in a particular context like sports or a company. "Breaking the law" refers to violating a legal statute or regulation. The two phrases are unrelated.