THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Break the mould
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To be noticeably new and different from the usual pattern.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- The theatre group broke the mould by letting visitors choose the ending.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Which expression from this lesson matches this meaning?
To be noticeably new and different from the usual pattern.
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Break the mould — To be noticeably new and different from the usual pattern.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Break the mould” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
To be noticeably new and different from the usual pattern.
Compare: The theatre group broke the mould by letting visitors choose the ending.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it positively for an original approach, design or example that departs from convention. This is the UK spelling.
More examples in context
- Her exhibition breaks the mould by mixing sound, maps and handwritten stories.
- The club wanted a course that would break the mould of long lectures.
Usage note
US English uses mold. Being different does not automatically make something better; the phrase highlights a departure from the familiar pattern.
A short conversation
A: Will the new workshop follow the usual lecture format?
B: No, we want to break the mould and let learners solve a real problem together.
A: Let us check that the activities support the learning aim.
One more practice question
Which design breaks the mould?
A. An original design that departs clearly from the usual pattern.
B. An exact copy of the standard design with no changes.
Check your answer
A. The expression emphasises newness and difference.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.