Definition & Meaning of "break even"in English

to break even

PHRASE

(of a business) to reach a point that yields no success due to the profit being almost as equal as the costs

Idiom

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

The idiom "break even" may be related to the idea of a balance point, where all inputs and outputs are equal. The phrase has been in use in English since at least the mid-20th century, and it is often applied to situations where a business or project is just able to cover its costs, but not generate any additional income or profit. In general, the phrase is used to describe a situation where the outcome is neither positive nor negative, but rather neutral or balanced.

Examples

The café finally broke even after six months.

to reach a point where gains equal losses, resulting in a balance

Collocation

Examples

The startup is projected to break even after a few more months of operation.