break the bank

1. Ruin one financially, exhaust one's resources, as in I guess the price of a movie won't break the bank. This term originated in gambling, where it means that a player has won more than the banker (the house) can pay. It also may be used ironically, as above. [c. 1600]

Example Sentences

The Chargers didn’t break the bank in free agency, but they did open their wallet wide for cornerback Donte Jackson, who had five interceptions for Pittsburgh last season after spending six years with Carolina.

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Thorrington didn’t have to break the bank to do any of it.

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For the average person, choosing an retro game won't break the bank, but Gemma has spent serious money, and owns a number of rare and valuable collector's items.

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"The Bees have no PSR concerns and could spend up to £200m, but are unlikely to break the bank for the sake of it as this is not the way that owner Matthew Benham conducts affairs at the club."

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The good news is Angelenos need not break the bank on these purifying devices — the cost of which can range anywhere from $50 to $1,200.

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Related Words

• boost 
• develop 
• grow 
• improve 
• raise 
• upgrade