break through

British  

verb

1. (intr) to penetrate

2. (intr, adverb) to achieve success, make a discovery, etc, esp after lengthy efforts

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noun

1. a significant development or discovery, esp in science

2. the penetration of an enemy's defensive position or line in depth and strength

break through Idioms  

1. Penetrate a barrier or obstruction, as in They broke through the wall to get into the vault, or It won't be long before we break through the code and map all human genes. Used literally for going through a physical barrier since about 1400, this phrase began to be used figuratively in the late 1500s.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

break through

But about four years ago, when reports of AI’s advancement began to break through to people paying attention, there was no declared objective: “We’ll split the atom, win the war, put man on the moon.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2026

"There's just such a high level of tension from the jump that you can't really even break through with the facts," he said.

From BBC ● Oct. 14, 2026

"This is a very big animal that's got the power to bite and break through bones."

From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2026

But as usual, he can’t help but break through the fence and run into traffic.

From Salon ● Sep. 18, 2026

In order to break through the communication barrier and begin peace negotiations with the Nhambiquara, Rondon set up a phonograph and played records.

From "Death on the River of Doubt" by Samantha Seiple

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