breakthrough
BRAYK-throo
/ˈbreɪk.θruː/
A sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development.
Suggests overcoming a specific barrier or obstacle that was previously holding back progress.
The story behind the word. Originally a military term from the early 20th century, it described an offensive that successfully broke through an enemy's defensive line.
Word relationships
- discovery: Discovery is finding something that already existed; breakthrough is a leap in progress or understanding.
- setback: A reversal in progress.
Commonly confused with
- invention: An invention is the object itself; a breakthrough is the moment of progress.
Word family
- break through (verb): To force a way through a barrier.
Collocations
- major breakthrough
- scientific breakthrough
- achieve a breakthrough
Idioms & expressions
- crack the code
- turn the corner
Example sentences
- "Researchers have made a major breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease." Medical science
- "This battery technology represents a significant breakthrough for electric vehicles." Technology
Memory hook
Imagine a wall of problems and your idea finally 'breaks through' to the other side. Breaking the wall.
When not to use
Don't use for slow, incremental progress; it must feel like a 'jump'.
Fun facts
- The term gained popularity in scientific contexts only after World War II.
Explore more words
break through, insightful, epiphany, discovery, pioneer, disruptive
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