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Region: General | Usage example: This pitch is a make-or-break moment.

Make or break

Meaning

Decide success or failure.

Usage

Used when outcomes hinge on one event.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Military or mechanical parts that can either make or break.

Used widely in modern risk discourse.

Related Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Break the bank

Spend all of one's money or exceed budget.

Break even

Neither lose nor profit; income equals expenses.

More Idioms

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.