break loose

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Word: Break Loose

Definition:
"Break loose" is a phrasal verb that means to escape from something that is holding you back or to become free from a situation. It can also describe something that is released suddenly and with force, such as emotions or energy.

Usage Instructions:

• When to Use: You can use "break loose" when talking about someone or something escaping from confinement, like a person fleeing from prison, or when an emotion suddenly comes out strongly.
• Structure: It is often used in the past tense (broke loose) or present continuous (breaking loose).

Examples:

1. Escape Context:

   • "The dog broke loose from its leash and ran into the park." (This means the dog escaped from being tied up.)

2. Emotion Context:

   • "When she heard the news, her joy broke loose, and she started dancing." (This means her happiness was suddenly expressed.)

Advanced Usage:

• "The storm caused the tree branches to break loose, falling onto the road." (Here, "break loose" refers to branches becoming detached due to external force.)

Word Variants:

• Break (verb): To separate or cause to separate into pieces.
• Loose (adjective): Not firmly held in place; free.

Different Meanings:

1. To escape: As mentioned, "break loose" often refers to escaping from physical confinement.
2. To express emotions: It can also mean to allow feelings to come out suddenly.

Synonyms:

• Escape
• Get free
• Break free
• Free oneself
• Erupt (in the context of emotions)

Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:

• Break free: Similar to "break loose," meaning to escape or become free from limitations.
• Let loose: To allow something to happen freely, often used with emotions or celebrations.

Example Sentences:

1. "After years of hard work, she finally broke loose from financial struggles." 2.

Academic

Verb

1. run away from confinement
   • The convicted murderer escaped from a high security prison
2. be unleashed; emerge with violence or noise
   • His anger exploded

Synonyms

• escape
• get away
• explode
• burst forth