break ranks

Idioms  

1. Fall out of line or into disorder; also, fail to conform, deviate. For example, The recruits were warned that they must not break ranks, or Harry was told to adhere to the party platform and not break ranks. This idiom uses rank in the sense of “soldiers drawn up in line,” and the term originally referred to their falling into disarray. The figurative usage dates from the mid-1800s.

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Example Sentences

Together with any reluctant votes from those who decline to formally break ranks, stiff opposition to a cut would show how replacing Powell won’t make it any easier to reduce rates next year, unless the economy is deteriorating.

From The Wall Street Journal

They’re “mavericks,” “outsiders,” principled conservatives who are willing to break ranks to stand up for what’s right.

From Slate

Yoon’s party holds 108 seats, meaning impeachment will require eight or more of them to break ranks.

From Los Angeles Times

A vote study by CQ Roll Call found her the second-most likely House Democrat to break ranks.

From Los Angeles Times

Duarte, a Central Valley native and fourth-generation farmer, casts himself as a moderate Republican who will break ranks with his party to represent the interests of his constituents.

From Los Angeles Times