What does the idiom "break even" mean?
The phrase break even is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of break even.
Meaning of "break even"
Meaning
The idiom 'break even' refers to a situation wherein a venture does not lead to a net gain or loss, due to balance between costs and revenue. This can be applied to any situation involving business, finance, or investments, where the amount of money spent is equal to the amount of money earned back.
Etymology
The exact origin of the phrase 'break even' is uncertain; however, its use has been recorded as early as the mid-1900s. The phrase is likely derived from the phrase 'break down even', which has been used for centuries to describe a situation where expenses are accurately weighed against profits. In the early 20th century, this phrase was modified to 'break even', which then became the idiom that is still used today.
Usage
The phrase 'break even' can be used in a variety of contexts. It is most commonly used to describe a situation in which the cost of an investment or enterprise is equal to the revenue it has generated. It can also be used to describe any situation where there is no net gain or loss, such as a business that is not making any profits but is not losing money either. Additionally, it can be used to describe a situation where two competing interests or goals are reaching an equal level of success or failure.
Example Sentences
- After months of hard work and investment, the company finally managed to break even.
- We were able to break even on our project, so we weren't at a loss.
- The two teams were playing to a break even score until the last minute.
Idioms with similar meanings in different languages
"Barking up the wrong tree" is an English idiom that means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. In German, the similar idiom is "Auf dem Holzweg sein," which translates to "To be on the wrong track." This idiom emphasizes the idea that when you are pursuing the wrong course of action, you are not going to achieve your desired outcome.
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