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

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

From Slate • Jul. 8, 2025

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

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 10, 2024

A council that was first to break ranks over the council tax freeze may fall into line after an offer of extra cash.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2024

Neither the Kens nor Los Alamos' scientists can break ranks without punishment.

From Salon • Aug. 14, 2023

They didn’t talk to anyone, or break ranks.

From "The Rock and the River" by Kekla Magoon