breakthrough
A significant and dramatic discovery or development that overcomes a major obstacle or impasse. It is often used to describe progress in science, medicine, or diplomacy after a long period of effort.
Examples
3 of 5I finally had a breakthrough with my painting technique after months of frustration.
I finally found a way to succeed with my painting after a long struggle.
The signing of the peace treaty was hailed as a major diplomatic breakthrough.
The agreement was celebrated as an important advancement in international relations.
I had a breakthrough and realized why my code wasn't working.
I suddenly understood the problem with my computer program.
Synonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Visualize a literal brick wall blocking your path. A 'breakthrough' is the moment you finally smash a hole through that wall to see what is on the other side.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are hoping for a _______ in the search for a sustainable energy source.
Correct!
The correct answer is: breakthrough
Examples
I finally had a breakthrough with my painting technique after months of frustration.
everydayI finally found a way to succeed with my painting after a long struggle.
The signing of the peace treaty was hailed as a major diplomatic breakthrough.
formalThe agreement was celebrated as an important advancement in international relations.
I had a breakthrough and realized why my code wasn't working.
informalI suddenly understood the problem with my computer program.
This research represents a significant breakthrough in our understanding of genetic mutations.
academicThis study is a major step forward in the scientific knowledge of genetics.
The new product launch proved to be the breakthrough the company needed to gain market share.
businessThe new product was the key success the business required to compete effectively.
Synonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
make a breakthrough
to succeed in making a discovery or finding a solution
breakthrough moment
the specific point in time when a major realization occurs
breakthrough technology
innovative technology that changes an industry
Often Confused With
A 'breakthrough' is a positive success or discovery, while a 'breakdown' is a failure, collapse, or a detailed analysis.
Usage Notes
Use 'breakthrough' as a noun to describe the event of discovery. As a phrasal verb, 'break through' (two words) describes the action of forcing a way through a barrier.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'breakthrough' as a verb; however, 'breakthrough' is the noun form. The verb form is the phrasal verb 'break through'.
Memory Tip
Visualize a literal brick wall blocking your path. A 'breakthrough' is the moment you finally smash a hole through that wall to see what is on the other side.
Word Origin
Derived from the phrasal verb 'break through', originating in the early 20th century to describe military penetrations of enemy lines.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
Frequently used in Western media to hype new scientific studies or medical trials.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are hoping for a _______ in the search for a sustainable energy source.
Correct!
The correct answer is: breakthrough
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