breaks, broke, broken, breaking
to break in
phrasal verbC
Interrupt a conversation or activity
- 1She broke in to offer her opinion.
- 2He broke in while we were discussing the plan.
When someone is talking or doing something, and another person suddenly starts speaking without waiting, this is when you stop them and start talking yourself. It means you do not wait for your turn and enter the conversation or activity without being asked.
People often break in during meetings when they have an urgent point to make, but it's polite to say "Sorry to break in" before speaking.
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waiting for public transportation
Unexpected Interruption
Charles
I was telling you about my trip to Italy last summer.
Patricia
Oh, that sounds amazing! What was your favorite part?
Charles
Well, I really loved the food, but let me break in to say that our bus is finally here.
Patricia
Oh, great! Let's continue this on the ride.
at the animal exhibit
A Surprise Encounter
Jason
Did you see the new tiger exhibit? It's amazing!
William
I was just about to check it out when,
Jason
Sorry to break in, but look over there, it's the zookeeper with a baby panda!
William
Wow, that's incredible! Let's go take a closer look.
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Similar to "to break in":
- 1interrupt
- 2interject
to break in meanings: