Breakaway: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in sports to describe a player or team separating themselves from the pack, or in political contexts to describe a group's divergence from a larger faction.

• The cyclist made a breakaway from the peloton and won the race
• The breakaway faction formed a new political party

Commonly used in sports or competitive contexts, referring to a player or team separating from others to lead. It can also mean a separation from a larger group or organization to form a new one.

• The cyclist made a breakaway in the last lap, securing his victory.
• There was a breakaway faction that formed its own company after disagreements.

Usually applied in music or performance settings, describing an act performed by a single person. It can also describe doing something alone, without assistance from others.

• Her violin solo was the highlight of the concert.
• He decided to go on a solo hike through the mountains.

Typically used in artistic contexts, such as music, theater, or literature. Refers to a short period between two parts of a performance or piece, providing a temporary break.

• The interlude provided a necessary pause between the acts of the play.
• The orchestral interlude was a delightful addition to the concert.

Refers to a situation or action in sports when an athlete or team moves ahead of others, creating a significant gap. This term is often used in cycling, soccer, or hockey.

• The cyclist made a breakaway during the final lap and won the race.
• His breakaway goal secured the victory for the team.

Used specifically for the formal withdrawal of a region or group from a larger political entity or country. It has a formal and often historical connotation.

• The secession of the southern states led to the American Civil War.
• The region's secession was seen as a bid for independence.

Refers to a division or separation within a group, often due to differing opinions or conflict. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts with a slightly negative connotation.

• The organization's split over the new policy caused a lot of internal conflict.
• There was a split in the group after the disagreement during the meeting.