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Breach

BREECH /briːtʃ/

nounverbB2GRETOEFLIELTS

formalgeneral

An act of breaking or failing to observe a law, agreement, or code of conduct; a gap in a wall, barrier, or defense, especially one made by an attacking army; to make a gap in and break through (a wall, barrier, or defense).

Implies a forceful or significant breaking of a barrier, rule, or agreement, often with negative consequences.

The story behind the word. The word 'breach' comes from the Old French word breche, meaning 'a break' or 'an opening.' It originally referred to a gap made in a wall, especially by an attacking army. Over time, its meaning expanded to include a break in an agreement, a law, or a security system, always retaining the sense of a significant rupture or violation.

Word relationships

Violation: Often used for rules or laws, less for physical barriers.
Rupture: Suggests a tearing or bursting apart, often physical.
Gap: A more neutral term for an opening, without the implication of forceful entry.

Compliance: Adherence to rules or agreements.
Security: The state of being protected from breaches.

Commonly confused with

Crack: A crack is a small, often superficial, split; a breach is a significant opening or violation.

Word family

breaching (adjective): That which breaches or causes a breach.

Collocations

data breach
security breach
breach of contract
breach a firewall
breach a defense

Idioms & expressions

step into the breach

Example sentences

"The recent data breach exposed the personal information of millions of customers, leading to widespread concern." Reporting on a data security incident.
"The company was sued for breach of contract after failing to deliver the promised services on time." A legal discussion.

Memory hook

Imagine a 'BREACH' in a wall, like a 'BREECH' (backside) of a cannon, creating an opening. Break through

When not to use

Don't use for minor infractions or small openings; it suggests a substantial violation or rupture.

Fun facts

The phrase 'step into the breach' comes from military contexts, meaning to fill a gap in defenses or take over a difficult task.