break the mold

/bɹˈeɪk ðə mˈəʊld/

/bɹˈeɪk ðə mˈoʊld/

[phrase]

to break the mold

[PHRASE]

to act so differently that it changes traditional or previous methods or approaches

to [break] the mold definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "break the mold" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "break the mold" can be traced back to the manufacturing process of creating objects using molds. A mold is a hollow form or pattern that is used to shape a material, such as clay, metal, or plastic, into a specific form. This phrase is often employed to praise and celebrate uniqueness, originality, and innovation.

Examples

1. His method of teaching physics breaks the mould.

2. She broke the mould by being the first person in her family to go to the university.

3. Their approach to sports teaching broke the mold.

4. Many traditionalists believe that the sporting industry should be predominately for men, and female journalists have endured a lot of criticism for breaking the mold.

Nearby words

break the bank

break the back of the beast