Breakthroughs: meaning, definitions and examples

💡

Add to dictionary

breakthroughs

[ˈbreɪkˌθruː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

scientific discovery

Significant and groundbreaking discoveries or developments in a particular field, especially in science or technology. Breakthroughs often represent a leap forward in understanding or capability.

Synonyms

advance, discovery, innovation, milestone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
breakthroughs	Use in situations where a significant, often sudden, development or achievement is made, especially after a long period of effort. Scientific breakthroughs in medicine have led to effective treatments for many diseases
discovery	Best used when referring to the act of finding something new or previously unknown, often in a scientific or exploratory context. The discovery of penicillin revolutionized the field of medicine
advance	Appropriate when referring to progress or development in a particular area or field, often gradual and cumulative. Technological advances have transformed communication and connectivity around the globe
innovation	Ideal for describing the introduction of something new, such as a new idea, method, or device, highlighting creativity and improvement. Steve Jobs was known for fostering innovation in consumer electronics
milestone	Applicable for significant stages or events in a process, marking important achievements or points of progress. Graduating from university was a major milestone in her life

Examples of usage

Recent breakthroughs in cancer research have led to promising new treatments.
The invention of the internet was a major breakthrough in communication technology.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

achievement

An important achievement or success, especially after overcoming a significant obstacle or challenge. Breakthroughs can also refer to a sudden, dramatic improvement in a situation.

Synonyms

achievement, success, triumph, victory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
achievement	Describes the act of accomplishing something noteworthy through effort and skill over time. Often used in personal or professional contexts. Graduating from university was a significant achievement for her. Winning the award was a proud achievement in his career.
success	Indicates the favorable or desired outcome of an endeavor. Can be used broadly in various contexts such as personal goals, business objectives, or projects. The event was a huge success, attracting thousands of attendees. Her success as an author is due to her hard work and dedication.
triumph	Refers to a great victory or notable success, often after overcoming significant obstacles. Has a more celebratory and grandiose connotation than 'success'. The team's triumph in the championship was celebrated by all their fans. His triumph over adversity is truly inspiring.
victory	Denotes the act of defeating an opponent or overcoming an obstacle. Commonly used in the context of competitions, battles, or conflicts. Their victory in the final match secured them the tournament title. The battle ended in a decisive victory for the allied forces.

Examples of usage

His breakthrough in the music industry came after years of hard work and perseverance.
The team's breakthrough performance in the playoffs surprised everyone.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'breakthrough' combines 'break' meaning to separate or disrupt and 'through' which indicates moving across or beyond something.
It first emerged in English writing during the 19th century, particularly in scientific and military contexts to describe significant advancements.

Science and Technology

The discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928 is often considered a breakthrough that transformed medicine.
The development of the internet in the late 20th century was a major breakthrough that changed how people communicate and access information.

Psychology

The concept of a 'mental breakthrough' refers to a sudden realization or insight that can lead to problem-solving.
In therapeutic settings, patients often experience breakthroughs when they uncover repressed memories or emotions, leading to healing.

History

The abolition of slavery is seen as a series of breakthroughs in human rights, leading to freedom for millions.
The moon landing in 1969 represented a significant breakthrough in space exploration, showcasing human ingenuity and perseverance.

Pop Culture

In movies and literature, characters often have personal breakthroughs that lead to growth, such as overcoming fears or achieving dreams.
The song 'Breakthrough' by Queen speaks to the idea of overcoming obstacles, illustrating the inspirational aspect of breakthroughs.

Translations

Translations of the word "breakthroughs" in other languages:

🇵🇹 avanços

🇮🇳 प्रगति

🇩🇪 Durchbrüche

🇮🇩 terobosan

🇺🇦 прориви

🇵🇱 przełomy

🇯🇵 突破

🇫🇷 percées

🇪🇸 avances

🇹🇷 atılımlar

🇰🇷 돌파구

🇸🇦 اختراقات

🇨🇿 průlomy

🇸🇰 prielomy

🇨🇳 突破

🇸🇮 preboji

🇮🇸 áfangar

🇰🇿 серпілістер

🇬🇪 გარღვევები

🇦🇿 irəliləyişlər

🇲🇽 avances