breaks out

Definition of breaks outnext
present tense third-person singular of break out
as in erupts
to develop suddenly and violently in the wake of news reports of deaths from the flu, panic broke out, and there was a mad rush for flu shots

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of breaks out Occasionally, an argument breaks out about who ate the last slice of baloney in the refrigerator. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026 Episode 2 starts with another flashback to young Nolan’s life on Viltrum when the Scourge Virus breaks out. Jordan Moreau, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026 In other words, there could still be meaningful upside runway if the stock eventually breaks out and follows a path similar to prior advances. Frank Cappelleri, CNBC, 11 Mar. 2026 When war breaks out, many insurers trigger what are known as standard war-risk cancellation clauses, according to Jungman at Vortexa. Alexander Smith, NBC news, 11 Mar. 2026 Body camera video shows Graham running from the deputy as a struggle breaks out. Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 23 Jan. 2026 At times, yes, when a football match breaks out between all of those stoppages. Oliver Kay, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025 Continue reading … POLITICS SENATE SHOWDOWN – Yelling match breaks out in Senate hearing with former Biden official over ‘two spirit’ safe spaces. FOXNews.com, 1 Oct. 2025 Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn. Daniella Segura, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for breaks out
Verb
  • Antisemitism controversy erupts at elite NY high school after Israel flyer found in urinal.
    , FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026
  • As the murders continue, Susie and Peter and his assistant Royal Lee orbit each other until the slow-burning fuse of the mystery erupts in the final pages.
    Peter Larsen, Oc Register, 23 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • In the original version, Sue just starts running away screaming because the head explodes.
    Fiction Non Fiction, Literary Hub, 23 Apr. 2026
  • But this tranquility explodes when a shocking murder occurs, and a high-stakes investigation unfolds.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 21 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Breaks out.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/breaks%20out. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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