Breaker-up

A 'breaker-up' refers to an individual, entity, or event that causes a relationship, agreement, or established system to end, separate, or disintegrate. This can apply to romantic partnerships, business collaborations, political alliances, or even the stability of a physical structure. The term emphasizes the act of termination, severing ties, or causing a fracture, regardless of intent. A breaker-up initiates or directly causes the division or dissolution of something formerly whole. It's a dynamic term, implying action and a decisive shift from a state of connection or unity to one of separation.

Breaker-up meaning with examples

• The unexpected resignation of the CEO acted as the major breaker-up of the company's long-standing partnership with its main supplier, throwing the supply chain into chaos. The leadership change created uncertainty and eventually prompted a re-evaluation of the agreement, leading to its termination. The unforeseen change was the reason for breaking apart a long-term business relationship.
• After months of growing tension, a series of harsh arguments ultimately proved to be the breaker-up of Sarah and Mark’s relationship, as their deep-seated incompatibilities surfaced, which led them to breaking up. Their conversations became increasingly painful, and each argument deepened the chasm between them, resulting in both of them going their separate ways.
• The economic downturn acted as the primary breaker-up of the housing market bubble, as foreclosures rose and property values plunged. Increased interest rates, decreased property sales, and job losses combined to disrupt and eventually dissolve the perceived financial stability. Ultimately, the market went down, becoming a financial breaker-up.
• A whistleblower's exposé served as the critical breaker-up of the political coalition, when it revealed corruption and secret dealings, eroding public trust. The scandal fractured the alliance, forcing members to distance themselves from each other. It showed everyone that the political partners were breaking up, as trust evaporated and the coalition collapsed.
• A sudden earthquake functioned as the destructive breaker-up of the ancient city, when its structures crumbled. The buildings were severely damaged, with homes and public infrastructure ruined, which meant that the city would be broken up. The geological event, resulting in a broken-up city and an end to a community’s existence.