Pronunciation: [bɹˈe͡ɪk ˈə͡ʊpən] (IPA) 
The phrase "break open" is spelled phonetically as /breɪk ˈoʊpən/. The first syllable is pronounced as "brayk" with a long "a" sound as in "day" and the "k" sound at the end. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "open" and the last syllable has the pronounced "p" with an "uh" sound. Together, this phrase means to forcefully separate a closed object or container, typically by force or effort.
break open (verb):
1. To separate or cause something to separate forcefully, typically by exerting excessive force or pressure that results in splitting or cracking. This action often reveals the contents enclosed within.
2. To forcibly enter or gain access into a locked or sealed object by breaking the closure or barrier that hinders entry.
3. To reveal or expose hidden information, secrets, or mysteries that were previously concealed or unknown.
4. In sports, especially team sports, to penetrate the defensive line or formation of the opposing team, creating an opportunity for scoring or gaining an advantage in gameplay.
5. In figurative sense, to disrupt or change the status quo of a situation, tradition, or system, often leading to new possibilities or outcomes.
Example sentences:
1. He used a hammer to break open the piñata, scattering the treats across the floor.
2. The burglar tried to break open the safe, but the advanced security system prevented his success.
3. Investigators were able to break open the case after finding crucial evidence at the crime scene.
4. The running back quickly broke open the defensive line, sprinting towards the end zone for a touchdown.
5. The groundbreaking invention broke open new horizons in technology, revolutionizing the entire industry.
The etymology of the phrase "break open" can be understood by examining the origins of its constituent words.
1. Break: The word "break" dates back to Old English, where it was spelled "brecan". It comes from the Proto-Germanic word "brekanan" which means "to break", derived from the Proto-Indo-European root word "bhreg-" meaning "to fracture, break". Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved into the modern term "break", referring to the act of separating or damaging something.
2. Open: The word "open" also has roots in Old English, where it was spelled "opnian" or "openian". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "opanojan", which means "to open" or "to open up".
