Sure! Let’s break down the phrase “break into” in a simple and clear way.
Definition:
“Break into” is a phrasal verb that means to start doing something suddenly or unexpectedly. It can be used in different contexts, often related to activities like dancing, singing, or expressing emotions.
Usage Instructions:
When to use it: You can use "break into" when someone suddenly starts a new action, like dancing, singing, or crying.
How to use it: It is usually followed by a noun (like "song" or "tears") or a gerund (like "dancing" or "laughing").
Examples:
Dance: "The dancers broke into a cha-cha." (This means they suddenly started dancing the cha-cha.)
Song: "She broke into a song when she heard her favorite tune." (This means she suddenly started singing.)
Tears: "He broke into tears when he heard the sad news." (This means he suddenly started crying.)
Yodel: "The performer broke into a yodel unexpectedly." (This means the performer suddenly started yodeling.)
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, “break into” can also imply intrusion or entering a place illegally, especially when talking about crime. For example: - "The thief tried to break into the house." (This means the thief attempted to enter the house without permission.)
Word Variants:
While "break into" is a specific phrasal verb, you can also consider variations like: - Break out: To escape from a place or to start suddenly (e.g., "break out in a sweat"). - Break through: To overcome an obstacle or barrier (e.g., "break through a wall").
Different Meanings:
Sudden Action: As mentioned before, starting something suddenly.
Intrusion: Entering a place without permission.
Synonyms:
Start
Burst into
Launch into
Begin suddenly
Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:
Break out in (something): To suddenly develop (e.g., "break out in applause").
Break down: To stop functioning or to lose control of emotions.
Summary:
“Break into” is a versatile phrasal verb that can describe sudden actions like dancing, singing, or crying. It can also refer to illegal entry. Remember to use it when you want to express that something happens unexpectedly!